Resmetirom: The First Disease-Specific Treatment for MASH.

Abstract

In 2023, the medical terminology for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and NA SteatoHepatitis (NASH) was updated to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated SteatoticLiver Disease (MASLD) and MA SteatoHepatitis (MASH). This review highlights the critical epidemiological, pathophysiological, and therapeutic aspects of MASH, focusing on the novel treatment option, resmetirom. Resmetirom, a thyroid hormone receptor-beta (THR-β) agonist, specifically targets liver function to simulate localized hyperthyroidism, effectively reducing lipid accumulation and liver fibrosis without the systemic effects commonly associated with thyroid hormone therapy. Clinical trials, particularly the pivotal MAESTRO-NASH trial, have demonstrated significant improvements in liver health metrics, achieving primary endpoints by resolving MASH without worsening fibrosis and showing a favorable safety profile. This paper reviews the mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety of resmetirom, providing insight into its potential to change the therapeutic landscape for patients suffering from MASH.