Concentration-dependent response to pioglitazone in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pioglitazone is a safe and effective option to manage patients with type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, there is marked variability in treatment response.

Aim

To evaluate the relationship between concentrations of pioglitazone and its active metabolites and treatment outcomes in patients with NASH.

Methods

Pioglitazone concentrations were measured in patients with NASH treated with pioglitazone 45 mg/day for 18 months; liver biopsy samples were obtained at baseline and after treatment. The primary outcome was a ≥2-point reduction in NAFLD activity score (NAS) with at least one-point improvement in more than one liver histology category and without worsening of fibrosis. A novel marker, the pioglitazone exposure index, was calcu

SUBMITTER: Kawaguchi-Suzuki M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5485416 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature