Review
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World J Hepatol. Sep 27, 2013; 5(9): 470-478
Published online Sep 27, 2013. doi: 10.4254/wjh.v5.i9.470
Current role of fenofibrate in the prevention and management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Michael S Kostapanos, Anastazia Kei, Moses S Elisaf
Michael S Kostapanos, Anastazia Kei, Moses S Elisaf, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
Author contributions: Kei A searched the literature; Kostapanos MS and Kei A prepared the paper; Elisaf MS edited this manuscript.
Correspondence to: Moses S Elisaf, MD, FRPSH, FASA, Professor of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ioannina, St. Niarchou Avenue, 45110 Ioannina, Greece. egepi@cc.uoi.gr
Telephone: +30-26510-07509 Fax: +30-26510-07016
Received: June 29, 2013
Revised: August 12, 2013
Accepted: August 17, 2013
Published online: September 27, 2013
Core Tip

Core tip: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common health problem associated with increased liver- and vascular-specific complications. Dyslipidemia, predominantly hypertriglyceridemia, and insulin resistance play a key role in its pathogenesis. Fenofibrate, by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors appears to decrease liver steatosis in experimental animal studies. This benefit can be attributed to its lipid-lowering potency, together with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant actions. Also, fenofibrate increases adiponectin levels and the expression of its liver-active receptor. A potential protective role of fenofibrate against NAFLD has also been implied by few small clinical studies. However, this benefit should be further assessed.