Researchers have discovered that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), commonly used to treat obesity, are also effective in addressing alcohol-related liver disease. These medications, such as Wegovy (semaglutide), have been widely discussed for their weight loss benefits, gaining attention from high-profile figures like Elon Musk and Adele.
The study, conducted by a team at Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center, analyzed data from 14,730 patients diagnosed with alcohol-related liver disease between 2013 and 2020. Researchers focused on the prescription of GLP-1 RAs and the impact on liver disease progression and hepatocellular carcinoma (a type of liver cancer) in these patients.
Alcohol-related liver disease, caused by prolonged alcohol consumption, can result in conditions like fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Often, symptoms are absent, though some patients may experience upper abdominal discomfort or fatigue. The most effective treatment is abstinence, with noticeable improvements occurring after 4 to 6 weeks without alcohol.
The study found that only 2.2% (317 patients) of the group received GLP-1 RA prescriptions. Among all patients, 32.0% (4,717) developed portal hypertension, and 3.8% (563) were diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma. In addition, 2.5% (374) underwent liver transplants.
A key finding revealed that 32.2% of patients who did not receive GLP-1 RAs developed hepatocellular carcinoma, compared to just 22.4% of those prescribed the medication. Further, hepatocellular carcinoma affected 3.0% of those without the prescription, while only 0.3% of those treated with GLP-1 RAs experienced the condition.
However, no statistically significant differences were noted in portal hypertension rates, with 14.5% in the GLP-1 RA group and 16.0% in the non-GLP-1 RA group. Liver transplant rates were also not significantly different, with 1.3% in the GLP-1 RA group and 2.5% in the non-prescription group.
Overall, the researchers found that liver disease incidence was significantly lower in patients treated with GLP-1 RAs (12.0%) compared to those not receiving the medication (21.0%).
The study suggests that GLP-1 RAs may have liver-protective effects in patients with alcohol-related liver disease. The researchers called on healthcare providers and policymakers to prioritize improving access to these medications.
The findings were published in the October issue of Liver International.
