Oral Hypoglycemic Therapy in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease

Metabolically associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), has become the most prevalent cause of liver disease worldwide. MAFLD is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and associated mortality. Despite its prevalence, MAFLD is often underestimated and does not receive adequate attention during clinical visits. MAFLD is a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome and affects approximately 55% of individuals living with diabetes. The new definition emphasizes bidirectional connections and raises awareness about identifying fatty liver disease in patients with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases or cardiovascular risk factors, as well as searching for these conditions in patients with MAFLD. Liver dysfunction significantly contributes to the development of diabetes. Although these mechanisms are not fully understood, fat accumulation in the liver leads to changes in energy metabolism and inflammatory signals, which promote insulin resistance. Furthermore, chronic hyperinsulinemia observed in diabetic patients also contributes to fat accumulation in the liver. Diabetes patients may benefit from medications that potentially have a positive impact on MAFLD and liver diseases. This article discusses the potential use of hypoglycemic drugs in MAFLD and their effects on liver fat content, liver enzymes used as markers of steatosis, and tissue inflammation indices, although existing data on structural liver changes are limited, requiring further research in this area.

metabolically associated steatotic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes, hypoglycemic drugs, insulin resistance, treatment of steatohepatitis, drugs for the treatment of steatosis, cirrhosis, cardiovascular diseases

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