Clinical research

ESSENCE — semaglutide MASH phase 3

Sema 2.4 mg in MASH F2-F3. Phase 3 interim May 2026: ~62% MASH resolution at 72 weeks.

Sema 2.4 mg in MASH F2-F3. Phase 3 interim May 2026: ~62% MASH resolution at 72 weeks.

Trial design

Phase 3 RCT of semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly vs placebo in adults with biopsy-confirmed MASH and F2-F3 fibrosis. Primary endpoint: MASH resolution without worsening fibrosis at 72 weeks.

Interim results — May 2026

NEJM publication of pre-specified interim: approximately 62% MASH resolution with semaglutide vs ~17% placebo at 72 weeks. Fibrosis improvement also favored semaglutide. Adverse events consistent with class profile.

Implications

Plausible 2027 FDA MASH indication for semaglutide. Would complement expected tirzepatide MASH indication (SYNERGY-NASH). Both molecules positioned as MASH therapies pending final readouts.

RA
Dr. Richard Allen, M.D. Endocrinology Reviewer · View bio →
Reviewed and fact-checked on May 20, 2026.