Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Their Benefits for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Twelve studies indicate that GLP-1 receptor agonists are associated with a reduction in hepatic fat in adults with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).

• The most consistent outcome across studies was a decrease in liver fat with semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, and beinaglutide.
• Improvements in liver enzymes, like alanine aminotransferase, were less consistent and should be viewed as supportive evidence rather than definitive.
• Histological improvement was most notable for steatohepatitis resolution in non-cirrhotic MASH patients.
• Findings on fibrosis were mixed, showing the greatest benefit in patients with F2-F3 MASH, while established cirrhosis showed limited improvement.
• GLP-1 receptor agonists were generally well tolerated, with gastrointestinal symptoms being the most frequently reported adverse effects.
• The effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on advanced fibrosis and long-term outcomes are still uncertain, indicating a need for larger, longer-term studies.

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