New research indicates that semaglutide may be an effective treatment for a type of fatty liver disease. Semaglutide is a medication that belongs to the class of GLP-1 agonists and is known for its use in managing diabetes and aiding in weight loss. Experts are exploring the potential health benefits of semaglutide beyond its established uses.
A study found that semaglutide can improve liver health in individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, a severe form of fatty liver disease. The medication, available under brands such as Rybelsus, Ozempic, and Wegovy, has gained popularity for its efficacy in diabetes management and weight loss.
A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine delved further into the effects of semaglutide on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, offering promising results. The research suggests that semaglutide may help alleviate steatohepatitis and reduce fibrosis in the liver.
The study, a phase 3 clinical trial involving participants with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), highlighted the damaging effects of the condition on liver cells, inflammation, and fat accumulation. The trial involved hundreds of participants across thirty-seven countries, with some receiving semaglutide and others a placebo.
Participants received semaglutide injections weekly and underwent regular evaluations to monitor changes in liver health. Results indicated that individuals treated with semaglutide showed significant improvements compared to those in the placebo group. Semaglutide led to resolution of steatohepatitis without worsening fibrosis in a higher percentage of participants, as well as improvements in liver fibrosis without exacerbating steatohepatitis.
These findings suggest that semaglutide holds promise as a therapeutic option for individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, offering hope for improved liver outcomes.
The severity of fibrosis was assessed in the study. Some participants in the semaglutide group experienced resolution of steatohepatitis and a reduction in fibrosis, with about 33% of them achieving this compared to 16% in the placebo group. The effects of semaglutide on weight loss, inflammation, and pain were also analyzed. The semaglutide group showed an average weight loss of 10.5% compared to only 2% in the placebo group. Although not statistically significant, participants taking semaglutide also reported a reduction in pain compared to the placebo group.
Participants in the semaglutide group had better outcomes from non-invasive testing, including decreased enhanced liver fibrosis scores and liver stiffness, compared to those in the placebo group. Other favorable outcomes in the semaglutide group included reduced systemic inflammation and cholesterol levels, as well as improved insulin sensitivity. Around 86% of participants in the semaglutide group experienced adverse events, slightly higher than the 80% in the placebo group, with more gastrointestinal events reported. However, no new liver-related safety concerns emerged.
The study suggests that semaglutide may be beneficial in improving liver health for individuals with NASH, but there are limitations to consider. The research lacked diversity with a small number of Black and lean participants. The impact of semaglutide on lean individuals with NASH remains unclear. The study did not provide data on biomarkers for alcohol consumption or genetic variations influencing treatment response.
Researchers note that the ongoing trial will continue to assess cirrhosis-free survival, and further follow-up data will be collected. The study highlights the potential of semaglutide in addressing metabolic dysfunction underlying liver issues and associated cardiometabolic conditions. The findings may be attributed to weight loss, as observed by experts outside the study. This suggests that weight loss contributes significantly to improving NASH, with semaglutide potentially offering additional benefits.
The study’s results raise the question of whether semaglutide can be used to treat liver conditions effectively.
Ian Storch, DO, a gastroenterology and internal medicine specialist and member of the American Osteopathic Association, who was not involved in the study, highlighted another potential benefit of semaglutide for people with MASH. He explained, “MASH (Metabolic Associated Hepatitis) is a significant disease that has not received much attention in the past due to the lack of cost-effective noninvasive imaging tools for assessing fibrosis and limited treatment options. The recent study published in the NEJM demonstrating the potential benefits of semaglutide for MASH patients with advanced inflammation and fibrosis represents a promising advancement in our fight against this slow but serious illness.” To read the original article, visit Medical News Today.
