In the realm of emerging pharmaceuticals, GLP-1/GIP emerges as a promising contender, poised to address non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fatty liver disease. This discourse delves into the intricacies of NASH, fatty liver disease, the mechanism underlying GLP-1/GIP, and the prospective advantages of employing it to combat these conditions.
Deciphering NASH and Fatty Liver Disease
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive fat accumulation within liver cells. This accumulation triggers inflammation and scarring, propelling the progression to a graver condition—NASH. Distinguished by inflamed liver cells and imminent damage, NASH harbors the risk of spiraling into cirrhosis or liver malignancies. The prevalence of fatty liver disease is surging, affecting an estimated quarter of the global populace.
As of now, the therapeutic arsenal against NASH and fatty liver disease remains limited, with prevailing recommendations fixating on lifestyle modifications encompassing dietary adjustments and physical activity. Notably, no FDA-approved medications are tailored specifically for NASH treatment.
A Glimpse into GLP-1/GIP
GLP-1/GIP is a pioneering drug nestling within the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonists category. Its modus operandi revolves around emulating the effects of these innate hormones, pivotal in blood glucose level regulation. By binding to and activating GLP-1 and GIP receptors, GLP-1/GIP propels insulin secretion and curbs glucagon release. This orchestration culminates in lowered blood glucose, heightened insulin sensitivity, diminished liver fat deposition, and suppressed appetite. Furthermore, the capacity of GLP-1/GIP to protract gastric emptying and augment satiety underscores its role in fostering weight loss.
In totality, GLP-1/GIP’s multi-pronged mechanism positions it as a promising recourse for individuals grappling with type 2 diabetes and obesity. These attributes potentially extend a helping hand to patients with NASH and fatty liver disease, as these conditions are often intertwined with surplus weight and obesity. Currently, the SYNERGY-NASH and SURPASS clinical trials are investigating GLP-1/GIP’s efficacy in tackling NASH and fatty liver disease.
Unlocking GLP-1/GIP’s Efficacy for Fatty Liver Disease and NASH
Encouraging signals emanate from clinical trials, spotlighting GLP-1/GIP’s potential in treating NASH and fatty liver disease. A phase 2 clinical trial, enrolling 316 type 2 diabetes patients subjected to GLP-1/GIP, dulaglutide, or placebo, showcased the marked reduction in fatty liver biomarkers among GLP-1/GIP recipients in comparison to the placebo group (1).
An illuminating editorial analysis delved into the SURPASS-3 clinical trial, unearthing GLP-1/GIP’s prowess in reducing liver fat content surpassing insulin. The relative decline in liver fat content stood at 29.8%, 47.1%, and 39.6% for GLP-1/GIP at 5, 10, and 15 mg/week respectively, in contrast to 11.2% with insulin degludec (2). These findings hold significance for insulin-dependent diabetes patients grappling with concurrent fatty liver disease.
As promising as these preliminary outcomes may be, they beckon for further research to unveil GLP-1/GIP’s long-term safety and efficacy in combating NASH and fatty liver disease. It’s important to note that while early trials show promise, GLP-1/GIP is still under clinical investigation and has yet to receive FDA approval for this particular usage.
Conclusion
In essence, GLP-1/GIP stands as a beacon of hope, heralding potential in the realm of NASH and fatty liver disease management. The confluence of factors—its efficacy in curbing liver fat, regulating blood glucose, and stimulating weight loss—positions it as a promising choice for those traversing the terrain of these conditions. Whether NASH and fatty liver disease loom in your medical history or not, if you’re navigating type 2 diabetes or obesity, the practitioners at Morph Health & Wellness extend a helping hand. With GLP-1/GIP and an array of other medications for medication-assisted weight loss, we stand ready to guide you through your journey, all via the convenience of tele-health.
