If you’ve been diagnosed with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), you’re not alone. Millions of people worldwide face this chronic liver condition. Until recently, treatment options focused on managing symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes. But there’s exciting news! The FDA recently approved the first-ever NASH medication specifically designed to treat NASH with fibrosis- Resmetirom (brand name Rezdiffra).
What is NASH?
NASH is a more serious form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD simply refers to excess fat buildup in the liver that’s not caused by alcohol. With NASH, inflammation, and liver cell damage occur alongside fat accumulation. This can lead to scarring (fibrosis) and even cirrhosis, the most severe stage of liver damage.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences:
- NAFLD: Fat buildup in the liver, not caused by alcohol has multiple stages including NASH.
- NASH: NAFLD with inflammation and liver cell damage, often fibrosis.
Introducing Resmetirom (Rezdiffra)
Developed by Madrigal Pharmaceuticals, Resmetirom is a new medication for NASH patients. It works by targeting a specific thyroid hormone receptor in the liver, helping to improve function and reduce inflammation. This targeted approach offers a new weapon in the fight against NASH. More importantly, this is the first NASH medication to be approved.
Resmetirom & Rezdiffra: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions regarding Resmetirom:
Resmetirom (NASH Medication) was FDA-approved in the US on March 14, 2024. So if you are located outside of the USA, this medication may not be yet available to you. Even within USA, while it may not be available at all pharmacies yet, talk to your doctor or medical facility. They can likely help you find out where to obtain it. Resmetriom is only available through prescription.
Safety is important and this is a very important question. As Resmetirom is a new medication, long-term data is still being gathered. It’s crucial to discuss this with your doctor, especially if you have other health conditions or take other medications. Right now, they are the best people who can help determine if Resmetirom is the right fit for you based on your health and history.
Unfortunately no. Resmetirom is only approved for those with NASH with fibrosis. If you are not yet at the NASH stage, you are very fortunate and you can reverse your NAFLD with the diet and exercise outlined in the 10-step program to reverse fatty liver.
Unfortunately no. Resmetirom is only approved for those with NASH with fibrosis. Research is ongoing, however, and we will keep this article updated if Rezdiffra is approved for Cirrhosis. If you have liver cirrhosis, your doctor may be able to help with alternate treatment options. Remember diet and lifestyle can still help.
Currently, Resmetirom is only approved for adults with NASH. However, research is ongoing, so stay tuned for updates on potential future applications.
As indicated earlier, the current Rezdiffra (Resmetirom) FDA approval is only for adults. However, stay tuned as new research and approvals come through, we will continue to provide the latest news on Resmetirom.
The good news is that Resmetirom comes as a convenient tablet taken by mouth (i.e. orally), once a day.
While Resmetirom is a valuable tool, it’s not a magic bullet. The Resmetirom is approved to be taken along with a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle remains important. You should still avoid things that can worsen NASH, such as sugar, simple carbs, processed foods, and excessive alcohol.
There’s a possibility of interactions with other medications. Always tell your doctor about everything you’re taking. They can advise you on potential risks and whether Resmetirom is right for you.
An important distinction to make: Resmetirom is currently approved for NASH with moderate to advanced fibrosis (stages F2-F3). Fibrosis is scarring, but cirrhosis is the most severe stage of liver damage. While not yet approved for cirrhosis, research is ongoing to see if Resmetirom can benefit people at different stages of NASH.
Rezdiffra (Resmetirom) is a powerful tool, but it’s not a free pass to ditch healthy habits. Diet and exercise are still crucial for managing NASH in the long run. In fact, in all Rezdiffra publications, it is clearly stated that Rezdiffra needs to be taken along with proper diet and exercise. Hence, think of the NASH medication as a teammate of diet and exercise, not a replacement.
As of 5/4/2024, the cost of 30 tablets of Rezdiffra, when not covered by insurance, costs between $3000-$5000. We recommend checking out a coupon for Rezdiffra.
Since Rezdiffra is newly approved FDA medication and first of its kind for NASH treatment, it may be a while before your insurance provider starts covering Rezdiffra (Resmetirom). However, the best option is to call your insurance provider and understand their current coverage.
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What to Do Next
Remember, we cannot diagnose or prescribe this medication. This article is for informational purposes only. If you think Resmetirom might be right for you, schedule an appointment with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.
In the meantime, here are some resources you might find helpful:
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