A type of diabetes drug called GLP-1 agonists might help people with fatty liver disease by reducing liver fat, improving blood sugar, and helping with weight loss—based on early study results.

What we've found so far is that the evidence we've reviewed leans toward GLP-1 receptor agonists being linked to reductions in liver fat, along with improvements in glucose levels and weight in adults with MASLD [1]. Our analysis of the available research shows this effect is supported by early study results. We looked at the evidence and found 49.0 supporting assertions and 0 refuting assertions regarding the impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on liver fat, glucose control, and weight in adults with MASLD [1]. These drugs, originally developed for type 2 diabetes, appear in early studies to influence more than just blood sugar. They may also help reduce fat buildup in the liver, which is a key feature of MASLD. At the same time, weight loss and better glucose regulation have been observed, though we are analyzing how consistent these results are across studies. Our current analysis shows a consistent direction in the data—toward benefit—but we note that the findings are based on early research. We cannot yet say how strong or long-lasting these effects are, or how they compare to other treatments. We also don’t have enough evidence to determine which patients might benefit most. We are still gathering and assessing data, and our understanding may change as more studies become available. Practical takeaway: For now, GLP-1 receptor agonists may help improve liver fat, blood sugar, and weight in adults with MASLD, but these results come from early studies—more research is needed to confirm how well they work over time.