A Closer Look at Pemafibrate and Lifestyle Changes for Liver Health

People with type 2 diabetes and Metabolic dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) often struggle with liver health. A recent study dug into how two different approaches might help: a medication called pemafibrate and a serious lifestyle overhaul. Pemafibrate is a drug that targets specific receptors in the body. It's thought to improve liver function by reducing fat buildup and fibrosis, which is scarring of the liver. The study used FibroScan, a non-invasive tool, to measure these changes. On the other hand, lifestyle changes like diet and exercise can also make a big difference. The study looked at how intense lifestyle modifications could impact liver health. Both approaches aimed to lower levels of a protein called soluble Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (sDDP-4)/CD26, which is linked to liver function. The study found that both pemafibrate and lifestyle changes had positive effects on liver health. However, the exact benefits and mechanisms still need more research. It's important to note that lifestyle changes often come with fewer side effects compared to medication. For those dealing with type 2 diabetes and MASLD, this study offers hope. It shows that there are multiple paths to improving liver health. However, it's crucial to consult with healthcare providers to determine the best approach for each individual.