Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide 2.4 mg, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, has shown promising results in the treatment of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with moderate to advanced liver fibrosis. The recently completed first part of the phase 3 ESSENCE trial, involving 1,200 patients, met its primary endpoints, with 37% of patients experiencing liver fibrosis improvement and 62.9% achieving MASH resolution at 72 weeks. These results surpass placebo performance and mark a significant advancement in MASH therapy.

This positive readout allows Novo Nordisk to pursue regulatory approvals in the U.S. and EU by mid-2025. Detailed results are anticipated to be shared at an upcoming scientific conference. Part 2 of the ESSENCE trial will continue through 2029 to further evaluate semaglutide's efficacy in reducing liver-related clinical events.

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