Do People with Moderate to Severe Fatty Liver Need Medication?

Whether individuals with moderate to severe fatty liver require medication depends largely on their liver function status.

When liver function is normal, medication is generally not necessary. In most cases, lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity and dietary adjustments can significantly improve the condition. Achieving a weight loss of around 7% has been shown to have a positive impact on liver health and can reduce fat accumulation in the liver.

Alcohol-related fatty liver can improve with reduced or eliminated alcohol consumption. For those whose condition stems from heavy drinking, cutting back or quitting alcohol entirely can lead to noticeable improvements in liver function and structure.

If liver enzymes are abnormal and the diagnosis is fatty liver disease with inflammation, treatment may be necessary. When lifestyle changes alone are not enough to improve liver function, doctors may recommend hepatoprotective medications. Commonly prescribed options include medications such as bicyclol, glycyrrhizin preparations, and polyene phosphatidylcholine.

Early intervention is key to preventing long-term liver damage. Monitoring liver health and making consistent lifestyle improvements can help avoid the progression of fatty liver disease to more serious conditions like cirrhosis or liver failure.

In summary, while medication is not always required, managing moderate to severe fatty liver through healthy habits and medical guidance is crucial. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action based on individual health assessments.