Merck's Efinopegdutide Shows Positive Phase 2b Results for MASH Treatment

Merck announced positive results from its Phase 2b clinical trial for efinopegdutide, an investigational treatment for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with stage 2-3 fibrosis. The study, simultaneously published in The Lancet, met its primary endpoint, showing a statistically significant greater proportion of participants achieved MASH resolution without worsening of fibrosis compared to placebo at 52 weeks. This development is significant as MASH poses a substantial risk of progression to cirrhosis and liver failure, highlighting an urgent need for new treatment options.