Pharmacotherapy of metabolically associated fatty liver disease

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD) is a progressive condition closely linked to metabolic disturbances such as insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, and arterial hypertension. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of MASLD, highlighting the need for the development of effective therapeutic strategies. This article provides a review of current pharmacological approaches for the treatment of MASLD. Various classes of drugs are discussed, including GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, and drugs targeting the activation of farnesoid X receptor and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. Clinical research data are summarized, demonstrating the effectiveness of these drug classes in reducing steatosis, improving hepatic histological markers, and correcting metabolic abnormalities. GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown improvement in metabolic profiles and histological markers, including a reduction in inflammation and positive changes in fibrosis stage. SGLT2 inhibitors have been shown to not only lower blood glucose levels but also improve liver function, as evidenced by improved imaging and biochemical markers. It has been shown that the effectiveness of hepatoprotective agents is limited in more advanced stages of MASLD. The prospects of using new drugs activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors are evaluated, demonstrating their potential in improving metabolic health and hepatic histological characteristics.

metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, insulin resistance, steatosis, physical activity, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, hepatoprotectors, PPAR agonists

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