Comprehensive Session on Resmetirom – A Breakthrough for MASLD/MASH

In a strategic effort to raise awareness and promote evidence-based management of liver diseases, Helix Pharma participated in the Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine (PSIM) Conference 2025 and organized a sponsored scientific session titled “Understanding MASLD and MASH – From Diagnosis to Treatment.” The session focused on the evolving clinical landscape of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and its progressive form, Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), and the role of Resmetirom, which has emerged as a significant contributor to chronic liver disease worldwide.

Prof. Karim Kammeruddin, Baqai Hospital Karachi gave a comprehensive talk. He provided an in-depth overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, and therapeutic approaches to MASLD and MASH highlighting the need for early identification and intervention in high-risk populations.

Dr. Kammeruddin emphasized that MASLD has now surpassed viral hepatitis and alcohol-related liver disease as the leading cause of chronic liver disease globally due to increasing rates of obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and sedentary lifestyles. He explained the transition from simple hepatic steatosis (fat accumulation) to MASH, which involves inflammation, hepatocyte ballooning, and fibrosis. He stressed the importance of differentiating MASLD from MASH, as the latter carries a higher risk of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and liver-related mortality.

Talking about Diagnostic Advancements, Dr. Kammeruddin introduced non-invasive diagnostic modalities such as FibroScan (Transient Elastography), NAFLD Fibrosis Score, and MRI-PDFF (Proton Density Fat Fraction) for staging liver fibrosis and monitoring disease progression.

Talking about Therapeutic Breakthrough – Resmetirom, he said that a major highlight of the session was the introduction of Resmetirom (MGL-3196), the first and only FDA-approved treatment for MASH. Resmetirom, a selective thyroid hormone receptor-β (THR-β) agonist, has demonstrated efficacy in reducing liver fat, inflammation, and fibrosis in Phase 3 clinical trials. Dr. Kammeruddin explained its mechanism of action, safety profile, and clinical implications in achieving histological improvement in MASH without worsening fibrosis.

Talking about Holistic Management Approach, he stressed the need of lifestyle modifications including weight loss through caloric restriction and physical activity, remain the cornerstone of MASLD management. However, with the advent of pharmacological options like Resmetirom, physicians now have an evidence-based tool to treat MASH and reduce liver-related complications.

In appreciation of the session, the PSIM Conference Chairing Committee remarked that this timely and scientifically rich session by Helix Pharma addressed one of the most pressing silent epidemics of our time—fatty liver disease. The depth of content presented by Dr. Karim Kammeruddin has enhanced our understanding of the evolving nomenclature, clinical assessment, and emerging treatment paradigms. We applaud Helix Pharma for initiating this academic dialogue and bringing forth the latest global developments to the local medical community.

This engagement is part of Helix Pharma’s broader vision under its Helix Initiative for Research and Academics (HIRA) — a platform aimed at bridging the gap between clinical practice and scientific innovation. Through continued support for medical education and real-world evidence generation, Helix Pharma remains committed to enhancing patient care standards across Pakistan.

The session concluded with a Q & A session in which clinicians discussed case-based scenarios and shared clinical experiences in managing MASLD/MASH, reinforcing the practical utility of the knowledge shared.

Muzaffar Jafri, Managing Director, Helix Pharma in his remarks Helix is privileged to launch Resmetirom in Pakistan, promoting awareness among multidisciplinary specialties about Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD/MASH). This initiative will streamline referrals to concerned experts, ensuring timely and effective patient care and ultimately improving outcomes for those affected. By empowering healthcare professionals with the latest knowledge, we’re driving innovation and improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Asif Ejaz, Sr. Director Marketing & Sales, Helix Pharma said that Resmetirom’s FDA approval marks a significant breakthrough in MASH treatment. The event’s success demonstrates our team’s ability to plan and execute an innovative scientific initiative, which wasn’t possible without the renowned medical expert’s advocacy.

Ashfaq Ahmed, General Manager, Marketing & Sales, Helix Pharma said that the event exceeded our expectations, bringing together healthcare professionals and fostering meaningful discussions about MASLD & MASH. We’re thrilled to see the impact of our initiative in promoting awareness and education about fatty liver disease.

Dr. Neeta Maheshwary, Associate Director Medical affairs, Helix Pharma said that the scientific collaboration has armed us with the latest expertise, allowing us to elevate patient care and make informed decisions in managing fatty liver disease.