From the Research
Jardiance (empagliflozin) is a promising treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), with recent studies suggesting its efficacy in reducing liver fat content, improving liver enzyme levels, and decreasing inflammation in patients with NAFLD, as seen in the 2025 study published in BMC Endocrine Disorders 1.
Key Findings
- The 2025 study found that empagliflozin significantly reduced liver fat grade and improved liver enzyme levels, including ALT and AST, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and NAFLD 1.
- The study also showed that empagliflozin decreased the odds of worsening fatty liver and improved insulin resistance, as measured by HOMA-IR 1.
- Another study published in 2021 found that empagliflozin improved liver steatosis and fibrosis in patients with NAFLD and type 2 diabetes, with significant reductions in liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and body weight 2.
Treatment Considerations
- The typical dose of empagliflozin used in studies is 10-25 mg taken once daily by mouth.
- Treatment duration in clinical trials has ranged from 20-24 weeks, though longer-term therapy may be needed for sustained benefits.
- Patients should be aware of common side effects, including urinary tract infections, genital yeast infections, and increased urination.
- Lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss, regular exercise, and a healthy diet low in processed foods and sugars, remain the cornerstone of NAFLD management.
Clinical Recommendations
- Before starting Jardiance for NAFLD, patients should consult with their healthcare provider, especially if they have kidney problems or are taking other medications.
- Empagliflozin may be considered as an adjunctive therapy for managing liver dysfunction in patients with NAFLD, particularly those with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- Further studies are needed to fully elucidate the effects of empagliflozin on liver health in patients with NAFLD, but current evidence suggests its potential as a valuable treatment option 1.