Current Status of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists in Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Clinical Perspective

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is currently a pressing public health issue associated with adverse outcomes such as cirrhosis, malignancy, transplantation, and mortality. Lifestyle modifications constitute the most effective and fundamental management approach, but they often pose challenges in sustaining long-term clinical benefits. Hence, there is a critical need to enhance our understanding through pharmacological management, which unfortunately remains limited. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have emerged as a leading treatment in the fields of diabetes and obesity, with recent preclinical and clinical studies indicating significant benefits in the management and treatment of MASLD. Our article begins by reviewing the beneficial therapeutic components of GLP-1RAs in MASLD. Subsequently, from a clinical research perspective, we concluded with the liver outcomes of current primary GLP-1RAs and co-agonists. Finally, we presented our insights on clinical concerns such as appropriate trial endpoints, management of comorbidities, and future developments. In conclusion, the benefits of GLP-1RAs in MASLD are promising, and background therapy involving metabolic modulation may represent one of the future therapeutic paradigms.