Weight-loss drug shows promise in fighting fatty liver in HIV patients

New study finds Semaglutide can significantly help people with HIV combat fatty liver disease. This revelation offers new hope for improving the quality of life and longevity for HIV patients.

Fatty liver, or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), poses a substantial risk to individuals with HIV, potentially leading to severe liver complications, including chronic disease, liver transplant, or death.

Led by Kristine Erlandson, MD, of the University of Colorado's Department of Medicine, the research, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, explores the use of semaglutide, a medication approved for treating diabetes and obesity, to address this issue.

Kristine Erlandson said: "Fatty liver is prevalent in up to 50% of people living with HIV, compared to 25-30% in the general population.” The study revealed that semaglutide could significantly reduce liver fat, thereby decreasing the risk of progressing to more severe liver conditions.

The research involved participants from the United States and Brazil, all living with HIV and MASLD. Over a 24-week period, the study observed that 29% of participants showed no signs of MASLD, while another 58% exhibited notable reductions in liver fat. The findings also highlighted improvements in various metabolic markers and significant weight loss among participants.

Erlandson explains: "Weight loss is a primary recommendation for fatty liver, but it’s challenging to achieve and maintain. Semaglutide offers an effective alternative, showing benefits beyond mere weight reduction."

Erlandson’s research underscores the dual benefits of semaglutide in targeting both metabolic dysfunction and inflammation, which are crucial in managing fatty liver disease in HIV patients. The study's success points to semaglutide as a potential game-changer, not only for liver health but also for reducing cardiovascular risks prevalent among people with HIV.