Semaglutide for Fatty Liver Treatment | 12 May 2025

Source: IE 

Why in News? 

A new study found that semaglutide (used in weight-loss and diabetes drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy) is also effective in treating fatty liver disease, also known as Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH). 

What is Semaglutide? 

• About: Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity. 
  • Semaglutide mimics the action of GLP-1, a hormone that helps lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin secretion in response to meals, inhibiting glucagon release, and delaying gastric emptying. 
• Side Effects: Semaglutide is associated with common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. 
  • It is contraindicated (not medically advised) for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2. 

What is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease? 

• About Fatty Liver Disease: Fatty liver disease (hepatic steatosis) is the buildup of excess fat in liver cells. 
  • It becomes unhealthy when fat exceeds 5% of liver cells (hepatocytes), affecting liver function and metabolism. 
  • It is of 2 types- NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) & Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD).  
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) or Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) (earlier known as NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) is a condition where fat accumulates in the liver without excessive alcohol intake and may cause serious liver damage over time.  
  • Its prevalence in India is estimated at 9–32%. 
  • 4 Stages of MASLD: 
    • Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver (NAFL): Fat builds up in the liver without causing damage or inflammation, usually leading to mild discomfort from an enlarged liver. 
    • Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) or Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH): A more serious form with liver inflammation, scarring, and links to heart and kidney issues. Around 25% may progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer. 
    • Fibrosis: Long-term inflammation creates scar tissue in the liver, which affects its ability to function. 
    • Cirrhosis: The most severe stage with permanent liver scarring, shrinking, and possible liver failure or cancer. 

• Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD): AFLD, or alcoholic steatohepatitis, is caused by excessive alcohol intake (≥ 40g/day in males, ≥ 20g/day in females), leading to fat accumulation in the liver.  
  • Alcohol metabolism in the liver generates toxic compounds that damage liver cells, trigger inflammation, and impair natural defences. 
• Treatment for Fatty Liver Disease: The primary treatment is weight loss through diet, exercise, or medication.  
  • GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: These medications aid in weight loss by regulating gut hormones that control appetite and fat storage. 
  • Resmetirom: A thyroid hormone-based drug that specifically targets liver fat, though it is costly. 
  • FGF21 Drugs: These drugs focus on adipose tissue to reduce fat accumulation and enhance metabolic health. 
  • Tirzepatide: A dual-action medication that promotes weight loss, assists in diabetes management, and shows potential benefits in treating sleep apnea.