Treatment of fibrosis using FXR ligands
The present invention relates to a method for inhibiting fibrosis that occurs in an organ where the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is expressed. This method involves the step of administering a high potency, activating ligand of FXR in an effective amount to a patient who is not suffering from a cholestatic condition. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing an effective amount of an FXR ligand and kits for dispensing the pharmaceutical compositions.
1. A method for treating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in a subject not suffering from a cholestatic condition, the method comprising the step of administering to the subject an effective amount of tauro-6-ethyl-chenodeoxycholic acid (tauro-6ECDCA).
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein tauro-6ECDCA is administered at a daily dose of 5-500 mg orally.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the cholestatic condition is defined as having abnormally elevated serum levels of alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), and 5′ nucleotidase.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the cholestatic condition is further defined as presenting with at least one clinical symptom.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the symptom is itching (pruritus).