Abstract

Novel treatment strategies for patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Author(s): Brian Lam,Zobair M Younossi

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome, affects up to 30% of the population. As with the obesity and diabetes epidemic, NAFLD is a significant public health concern. Compared to other chronic liver diseases, management options for NAFLD are limited. While current treatment focuses on weight loss and management of cardiometabolic risk factors, significant weight loss is difficult to achieve and maintain. Two decades of research have produced numerous potential treatments, all hindered by various limitations. Vitamin E may be effective for some patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, but more treatment options are needed, and several promising agents are under investigation. We review treatment strategies previously studied and briefly survey potential treatments on the horizon.