Elafibranor for previously treated primary biliary cholangitis

Elafibranor is currently in clinical development for the treatment of adults with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) who are either unable to tolerate treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) or show inadequate response to UDCA. Primary biliary cholangitis is a disease in which there is long-term damage to the small bile ducts in the liver. These ducts transport fluid called bile from the liver to the intestines, where it helps to digest fats. Because of the damage to the ducts, bile acids, essential components of bile, build up in the liver causing damage to liver tissue and leading to liver cirrhosis (scarring of the liver). Primary biliary cholangitis is a long-term debilitating and life-threatening disease because it can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver failure, and may increase the risk of liver cancer.1 There are very few treatments for this disease and an estimated 40% of treated patients in the UK do not respond favourably to existing treatment. The symptoms of PBC can significantly impair quality of life.