Once-weekly therapy may lower liver fat levels and enhance key health indicators in adults with excess weight

New findings underscore the promise of survodutide, a once-weekly injectable agent that acts on both glucagon and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors, for people living with obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), also called fatty liver disease, whether or not diabetes is present. The results were shared during symposia at the 2026 Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association in New Orleans.

Obesity represents a long-term metabolic condition affecting roughly two in five adults in the United States and raises the likelihood of heart disease, diabetes, fatty liver issues such as MASLD, and additional metabolic disorders. Untreated MASLD may advance to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), bringing risks of lasting liver scarring, cirrhosis, liver failure, and higher chances of liver cancer. Many patients still lack reliable, lasting therapies that tackle both weight control and broader metabolic wellness.

SYNCHRONIZE-1 Trial: Once-Weekly Therapy Produced Major Weight Reduction and Wide-Ranging Metabolic Gains

SYNCHRONIZE-1, a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled phase 3 study, tested whether survodutide, an investigational dual glucagon/GLP-1 receptor agonist, supports weight loss in adults with overweight or obesity, including those with and without type 2 diabetes.

Findings published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that the weekly injection achieved notable sustained weight loss, with participants shedding as much as 16.6 percent of body weight while preserving muscle mass. Visceral fat dropped by up to 34 percent, addressing the harmful fat tied to insulin resistance and heart risk. Liver fat fell by as much as 63.1 percent, highlighting the drug's ability to support liver recovery in individuals with obesity who face MASH risk.

"Effective therapies must deliver real gains in metabolic health beyond weight reduction alone," noted Carel le Roux, MD, PhD, the study's lead author. "Better metabolic health can lower chances of serious obesity-related problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and liver complications while improving daily well-being and long-term results."

Survodutide May Cut Liver Fat While Aiding Weight Loss in Adults with MASLD/MASH and Obesity

The SYNCHRONIZE-MASLD study included adults with overweight or obesity (BMI at or above 30 kg/m2, or BMI at or above 27 kg/m2 plus at least one weight-related condition) who also had MASLD/MASH. Participants received either different doses of once-weekly survodutide or placebo for one year.

Results published in Nature Medicine indicate that survodutide can target core metabolic drivers linked to obesity and MASLD/MASH by lowering visceral and liver fat while promoting meaningful weight reduction.

Further phase 3 SYNCHRONIZE work will examine obesity, liver outcomes, and cardiovascular effects. Additional analyses will review real-world use and results in underserved groups, including women and individuals with MASLD/MASH.

Research Presentation Details:

Efficacy and Safety of Survodutide for the Treatment of Obesity in People without Diabetes: Results from SYNCHRONIZE-1 (NCT06066515)

Carel le Roux, MD, PhD
Symposium: The Benefits of Glucagon/GLP-1 Receptor Dual Agonism: Insights from the SYNCHRONIZE Phase 3 Studies of Survodutide
Sunday, June 7 from 2:02-2:17 p.m. CT
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Great Hall A (Level 1)

Design and Outcomes of SYNCHRONIZE-MASLD: Survodutide for the Treatment of Obesity and MASLD (NCT06309992)

Lee Kaplan, MD, PhD
Symposium: The Benefits of Glucagon/GLP-1 Receptor Dual Agonism: Insights from the SYNCHRONIZE Phase 3 Studies of Survodutide
Sunday, June 7 from 2:17-2:29 p.m. CT
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Great Hall A (Level 1)

About the American Diabetes Association 2026 Scientific Sessions
The ADA 2026 Scientific Sessions, the largest global scientific gathering on diabetes research, prevention, and care, takes place in New Orleans from June 5-8. Leading physicians, scientists, and health professionals from around the world will gather in person and online to present new research, treatment guidance, and progress toward a diabetes cure. Attendees gain access to thousands of original research talks and engage with top diabetes experts. Follow the conversation on social media with #ADASciSessions.

About the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association leads national efforts to end diabetes and support those living with the condition. Marking 85 years of advancing discovery and research, the organization works to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure diabetes. More than 155 million Americans have diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, programs, and education, the ADA stands with all affected individuals. Visit diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383) to learn more or take part. Connect on Facebook, Spanish Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X.

SOURCE American Diabetes Association