Ozempic Use in Patients with Abnormal Liver Function Tests

Assessment and Monitoring of Liver Function

The European Association for the Study of the Liver recommends determining the cause and severity of liver test abnormalities through a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and appropriate investigations 1, 2
Abnormal liver tests often remain abnormal on retesting (84% after 1 month, 75% after 2 years), so determining the underlying cause is more important than simply repeating tests 2
A standard liver aetiology screen (core panel) should be considered to identify the cause of liver test abnormalities 2, 3
Baseline liver function tests should be obtained in patients with known liver disease, and periodic monitoring of liver tests is reasonable during treatment, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease 3, 4, 5

The American Diabetes Association suggests that semaglutide may be particularly beneficial for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) as it can improve both metabolic parameters and liver histology 6
In patients with advanced fibrosis (F2-F4), semaglutide may be considered as part of liver-directed pharmacotherapy 6
Weight loss from semaglutide can be beneficial for NAFLD/NASH but should be monitored carefully in those with cirrhosis 6