EFFICACY OF ROSUVASTATIN IN THE MANAGEMENT OF NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE

Abstract

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disorder closely associated with metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. Pharmacological options for NAFLD remain limited, and statins have emerged as potential agents due to their lipid-lowering and pleiotropic effects. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of rosuvastatin in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Methodology: This randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Department of Medicine, Allama Iqbal Memorial Hospital, Sialkot, from September 2024 to January 2025. A total of 85 patients diagnosed with NAFLD were enrolled using non-probability consecutive sampling. All patients received rosuvastatin 10 mg once daily for 12 weeks. Baseline and post-treatment assessments included liver enzymes, lipid profile, glycemic parameters, body mass index, and ultrasonographic grading of fatty liver. Patients were stratified into diabetic and non-diabetic groups for comparative analysis. Results: At baseline, diabetic patients had significantly higher liver enzyme levels than non-diabetics. After 12 weeks of therapy, significant reductions were observed in ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT in both groups (p < 0.001). LDL-C and triglyceride levels decreased significantly, while HDL-C increased. Ultrasonographic grading showed a significant shift toward lower grades of fatty liver, with a reduction in Grade 3 steatosis in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Rosuvastatin was well tolerated, with mild adverse events and no serious complications or treatment discontinuation. Conclusion: Rosuvastatin is an effective and safe treatment option for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, leading to significant improvement in liver enzymes, lipid profile, and hepatic steatosis. Its benefits are evident irrespective of diabetic status, supporting its use in NAFLD patients with metabolic comorbidities.