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.
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Underappreciated Nursing Staff Feel 'Box-Ticking' Tasks Drive Them Away, Study Finds
A new study reveals that undervalued and overtasked nursing staff in general practice are leaving the profession, risking a severe staff shortage by 2030. Learn about the factors impacting nurse retention and potential solutions.
Genetic Link to Hereditary Cancer Traced to Quebec Ancestor
A groundbreaking study links a common hereditary cancer gene in Quebec to a single ancestral origin, informing better screening strategies and early detection efforts.
New Study Reinforces the Role of Physical Activity in Preserving Brain Health
Regular physical activity plays a key role in preserving brain size and health during aging, regardless of body weight or metabolic health, according to a recent large-scale study.
Innovative Zebrafish Study Offers Hope for Rare Lymphatic Disease Treatment
A groundbreaking study using zebrafish models uncovers potential drugs to treat kaposiform lymphangiomatosis (KLA), a rare lymphatic disorder, offering hope for faster, safer therapies.