Comparative Analysis of Resmetirom vs. FGF21 Analogs vs. GLP-1 Agonists in MASLD and MASH: Network Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials

Introduction: Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and Metabolic-Dysfunction Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH) are linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, increasing liver-related morbidity and cardiovascular risk. Recent therapies, including Resmetirom, FGF21 analogs, and GLP-1 agonists, have shown promise. This network meta-analysis evaluates their comparative efficacy and safety. Methods: A literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Included clinical trials addressed MASLD or MASH with Resmetirom, FGF21 analogs, or GLP-1 agonists. Statistical analyses used a random-effects model, calculating mean differences (MD) and relative risks (RR), with heterogeneity assessed using τ2, I2, and Q statistics. Results: MASH resolution was significantly higher for FGF21 (RR 4.84, 95% CI: 2.59 to 9.03), Resmetirom showed the most significant reduction in MRI-PDFF (MD −18.41, 95% CI: −23.60 to −13.22) and >30% fat reduction (RR 3.56, 95% CI: 2.41 to 5.26). Resmetirom significantly reduced ALT (MD −15.71, 95% CI: −23.30 to −8.13), AST (MD −12.28, 95% CI: −21.07 to −3.49), and GGT (MD −19.56, 95% CI: −34.68 to −4.44). FGF21 and GLP-1 also reduced these markers. Adverse events were significantly higher with Resmetirom (RR 1.47, 95% CI: 1.24 to 1.74), while GLP-1 and FGF21 showed non-significant trends towards increased risk. Conclusions: Resmetirom and FGF21 show promise in treating MASLD and MASH, with Resmetirom particularly effective in reducing liver fat and improving liver enzymes. GLP-1 agonists also show benefits but to a lesser extent. Further long-term studies are needed to validate these findings and assess cost-effectiveness.