Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Drug Revolution Is Coming
- Author:
Soung Won JEONG
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Review
- From:Diabetes & Metabolism Journal 2020;44(5):640-657
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: The worldwide prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is around 25%, and that of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) ranges from 1.5% to 6.45%. Patients with NASH, especially those with fibrosis, are at higher risk for adverse outcomes such as cirrhosis and liver-related mortality. Although vitamin E, pioglitazone, and liraglutide improved liver histology in randomized trials, there are currently no Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs for NASH. Five pharmacologic agents—obeticholic acid, elafibranor, cenicriviroc, resmetirom, and aramchol—are being evaluated in large, histology-based phase 3 trials. Within 2 to 4 years, new and effective drugs for the treatment of NASH are expected. Additionally, many phase 2 trials are ongoing for various agents. Based on the results of phase 2 and 3 trials, combination treatments are also being investigated. Future treatment strategies will comprise drug combinations and precision medicine based on the different phenotypes of NASH and treatment response of the individual patient.
