Rezdiffra, also known as resmetirom, is a medication that has recently gained attention for its potential in treating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a type of liver disease characterized by inflammation and fat accumulation in liver cells. As with any medication, it's essential to understand the potential side effects of Rezdiffra to make an informed decision about your treatment. In this article, we'll explore the side effects of Rezdiffra, its mechanism of action, and what you need to know about this treatment option.
What is Rezdiffra and How Does it Work?
Rezdiffra is a selective thyroid hormone receptor beta (THR-β) agonist, which means it works by activating a specific receptor in the body that regulates liver function and metabolism. By activating this receptor, Rezdiffra helps to reduce liver inflammation, improve liver function, and decrease fat accumulation in liver cells.
Common Side Effects of Rezdiffra
In clinical trials, the most common side effects of Rezdiffra reported by patients included:
- Fatigue (14.1%)
- Nausea (10.3%)
- Diarrhea (8.5%)
- Headache (7.2%)
- Dizziness (5.6%)
These side effects were generally mild to moderate in severity and resolved on their own or with continued treatment.
Serious Side Effects of Rezdiffra
While rare, Rezdiffra can cause serious side effects, including:
Liver Injury
Rezdiffra may cause liver injury, including increases in liver enzymes and liver cell death. In clinical trials, 1.4% of patients treated with Rezdiffra experienced liver injury, compared to 0.5% of patients receiving a placebo.
| Liver Enzyme Elevation | Rezdiffra (n=431) | Placebo (n=218) |
|---|---|---|
| ALT ≥ 3 x ULN | 4.6% | 2.3% |
| AST ≥ 3 x ULN | 3.7% | 1.4% |
Thyroid Hormone Levels
Rezdiffra can affect thyroid hormone levels, including decreases in free thyroxine (FT4) and increases in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). In clinical trials, 14.1% of patients treated with Rezdiffra experienced decreases in FT4, compared to 2.3% of patients receiving a placebo.
Key Points
- Rezdiffra is a selective THR-β agonist for the treatment of NASH.
- Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness.
- Serious side effects may include liver injury and changes in thyroid hormone levels.
- Close monitoring of liver function and thyroid hormone levels is recommended.
- Rezdiffra has shown promise in reducing liver inflammation and improving liver function in clinical trials.
Conclusion
Rezdiffra is a promising treatment option for patients with NASH, offering a potential solution for this complex and multifaceted disease. While side effects can occur, they are generally manageable, and the benefits of treatment may outweigh the risks for many patients. As with any medication, it's essential to discuss the potential benefits and risks of Rezdiffra with your healthcare provider to determine if it's right for you.
What is Rezdiffra used to treat?
+Rezdiffra is used to treat non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a type of liver disease characterized by inflammation and fat accumulation in liver cells.
What are the most common side effects of Rezdiffra?
+The most common side effects of Rezdiffra include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness.
Can Rezdiffra cause liver injury?
+Yes, Rezdiffra may cause liver injury, including increases in liver enzymes and liver cell death. Close monitoring of liver function is recommended.