Are GLP-1 Analogues a New Solution for the Treatment of NAFLD?

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Introduction and purpose:

There is currently a pandemic of overweight and obesity, which is closely associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It is the most common cause of chronic liver disease [1]. The global prevalence of this condition reaches 25% of the population and 65-70% of patients with type 2 diabetes [2]. There is no approved pharmacological treatment for NAFLD, and the current mainstay of NAFLD treatment is lifestyle modification and weight reduction, which is difficult to achieve and even more difficult to maintain. NAFLD represents a serious health and economic burden, which is why the search for an effective therapy is so important [1,2,3].

The purpose of this review was to assess the current knowledge of the efficacy of GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) analogs in the treatment of NAFLD.

Material and methods:

Data bases such as Pubmed and GoogleScholar were used for research with the key words included: MAFLD, NAFLD, GLP‐1 receptor agonists, GLP‐1 analogues, incretin mimetics. The review included studies that evaluated the efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the adult population.

Description of the state of knowledge:

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues are drugs approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity with pleiotropic effects. They have a beneficial effect on the glycemic profile, reduce body weight and have an anti-inflammatory effect. They appear to be a promising therapy for the treatment of NAFLD, as these patients are usually overweight/obese and have insulin resistance and/or diabetes [1,3].

Conclusions:

It is hoped that in the coming years the efficacy of these drugs in NAFLD will be confirmed and they will be approved for this indication [1].