Diabetes and Weight Loss Drug Semaglutide Shows Promise in Treating Liver Disease
Emerging research shows that semaglutide, a medication for diabetes and weight loss, may also improve liver health in patients with fatty liver disease, opening new horizons in treatment options.
Diabetes and Weight Loss Drug Semaglutide May Also Help Treat Liver Disease
Semaglutide, a medication commonly used for managing diabetes and aiding weight loss, is showing promising results in improving liver health in people with a severe form of fatty liver disease called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
What is semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist marketed under brands like Ozempic and Wegovy. While its primary uses include diabetes management and weight loss, recent research indicates it may have additional benefits for liver health.
Key findings from recent studies
A phase 3 clinical trial involving participants with MASH found that nearly 63% who received semaglutide experienced resolution of liver inflammation without worsening fibrosis, compared to 34.3% in the placebo group. Participants also showed significant improvements in liver fibrosis, weight loss, and markers of inflammation, with some reporting fewer symptoms of liver-related complications.
Additional health benefits
Participants on semaglutide saw an average weight loss of 10.5%, along with improvements in liver stiffness, inflammation, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity. While side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort were noted, no new safety concerns emerged.
Study limitations and future outlook
The study had some limitations, including a lack of diversity among participants and ongoing follow-up for long-term outcomes. Experts believe that weight loss plays a significant role in the drug's benefits, but further research is necessary to confirm direct liver effects.
Implications for liver disease treatment
This research offers hope for new, non-invasive treatment options for liver diseases like MASH, which previously lacked effective therapies. Experts suggest semaglutide could become part of a multi-faceted approach to managing fatty liver and associated metabolic conditions.
Note: The ongoing studies will further clarify the long-term benefits and safety of semaglutide for liver health.
Expert opinions
Dr. Mir Ali highlights that the improvements seen in MASH may primarily be due to weight loss, which is a known factor in liver health improvement. Similarly, Dr. Ian Storch emphasizes the importance of this research in addressing a disease with limited treatment options.
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