Pharmacologic Management of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common complex chronic liver disease that encompasses a spectrum of disease from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH has the potential to progress to advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Currently, there are no definitive universally accepted treatment options available for NASH. Most pharmacological agents that have been investigated are limited by inconsistent efficacy or side effects. We reviewed the current literature on the principle drugs that have been tested for NAFLD in the adult population, with special emphasis on clinical data and safety profiles. Methods: A comprehensive PUBMED/MEDLINE search was conducted to identify principal therapeutic intervention studies for NAFLD, from which a summary of the studies were formulated in this review. Results: A variety of studies, including retrospective, open-label and randomised controlled trials were reviewed in terms of clinical efficacy and side effect profiles. In addition to the most commonly studied therapeutic agents (insulin sensitizers, vitamin E, pentoxifylline, UDCA, PUFA, statins and ezetimibe), emerging pharmacologic agents showing potential efficacy in NAFLD were also explored. Conclusion: Based on risk-benefit profiles, pentoxifylline seems to have the best treatment outcomes currently, with significant improvement in histology while having minimal tolerable side effects. Further clinical research is warranted to understand and improve our repertoire of treatment options, including potential combination therapy, towards this complex disease.