Breakthrough: Ozempic, Wegovy Ingredient May Heal Liver Disease

The recent advancements in the treatment of liver diseases, particularly metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), have been significantly influenced by the active ingredient semaglutide, found in Ozempic and Wegovy. A large-scale clinical trial demonstrated that semaglutide effectively treats MASH, showing substantial improvements over placebo in resolving liver inflammation and reducing scar tissue . Additionally, participants reported an average weight loss of approximately 10%, underscoring the dual benefits of this treatment for patients suffering from obesity-related liver conditions.

Research conducted by King's College London further highlights semaglutide's potential to reverse severe liver damage in nearly 40% of patients with NAFLD . This finding is particularly significant given the rising incidence of NAFLD linked to obesity and diabetes. Current treatment options remain limited; thus, semaglutide presents a promising alternative that could reshape therapeutic strategies for managing these prevalent conditions.

The disease, known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), occurs where fat builds up in the liver, leading to inflammation, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

MASH can lead to scarring and even permanent liver damage. It can also lead to liver failure or cancer -- increasing the risk of transplant or chemotherapy -- and significantly raise the risk of liver-related death.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a long-lasting liver condition caused by having too much fat in the liver. MASH is a more severe form of MASLD. It is closely linked with obesity as well as conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart and circulatory disease.

Over time, the build-up of fat in the liver can lead to inflammation, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver cancer. MASLD affects one in five people in the UK but there are no medicines licensed to specifically treat the disease.

Scientists plan to report results from the second part of the trial in 2029, Gough says. That part will evaluate whether taking semaglutide lowers the risk of serious outcomes in patients, like the development of cirrhosis, liver failure, liver transplantation and death.

While side effects such as gastrointestinal issues were noted during trials, the overall efficacy of semaglutide positions it as a potential frontline therapy for various forms of liver disease. As healthcare professionals anticipate its availability on public health systems like the NHS within a year, ongoing research will be crucial to fully understand its long-term impacts and optimize patient outcomes

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Sarah H

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