A new clinical trial tests the benefits of an oral drug for people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and yields very promising results.
NAFLD can progress into nonalcoholic steatohepatitis , wherein liver inflammation and liver cell damage accompany the fat buildup. Up to 12% of the U.S. population have NASH, and this condition can progress into cirrhosis and fibrosis. Previous research has shown that using nor-urso to produce bile acid synthetically helps treat another incurable liver condition, called primary sclerosing cholangitis.
1,500-mg dosage 'safe and well-tolerated' The results of the trial revealed that nor-urso improved liver health, as reflected by ALT levels. In conclusion, a 1,500-mg dosage of nor-urso"resulted in a significant reduction of serum ALT within 12 weeks of treatment, when compared with placebo," write the authors.Compound works in a 'personalized' way The trial's authors explain the mechanisms behind nor-urso's beneficial effects. Study co-author Dr. Michael Trauner says that synthetically created bile acid protects the liver from inflammation.