Wegovy wins FDA approval for treating severe liver disease in adults

Wegovy, a medication containing semaglutide, has just received accelerated FDA approval for treating a serious liver condition. The drug can now be prescribed for adults with MASH—previously called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis—who have moderate to advanced liver fibrosis. This latest approval adds to its existing uses for weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction.

Wegovy was already approved for weight loss in individuals who are overweight or obese, particularly those with conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or abnormal cholesterol. It works by reducing appetite, which often leads to eating less and, over time, losing weight. The drug has also been cleared to lower the risk of major heart problems in adults.

The FDA's latest decision allows Wegovy to be used for MASH patients without cirrhosis but with fibrosis at F2 or F3 stages. However, no specific Phase-III trials were cited as the basis for this accelerated approval. Full confirmation of this new use may still depend on further research. In the first week of treatment, patients might not see immediate weight loss, though some health improvements—such as better blood sugar or blood pressure levels—could appear early. Common side effects during this period include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain, headaches, tiredness, and dizziness. These usually ease as the body adjusts to the medication. Doctors can help manage side effects by adjusting the dose, recommending over-the-counter remedies, or suggesting simple changes like drinking more fluids or eating more fibre. Weight loss results vary from person to person, with higher doses generally producing better outcomes.

Wegovy now offers a new option for adults with MASH-related liver fibrosis, alongside its established roles in weight control and heart health. While early side effects are common, they tend to decrease over time. The drug's long-term benefits will depend on ongoing studies and individual patient responses.