Research Center: Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
Location: The Alfred Hospital (Baker Institute Level 4) 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne VIC 3004
Lead Investigator: Dr Andrew Carey
Ethics Committee: This study has been reviewed and approved by the Alfred Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee

Background

Whether or not it is associated with weight gain, accumulation of liver fat is one of the earliest signs that a person will eventually develop type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular and/or associated diseases. Unfortunately, there are no drugs available specifically to reduce liver fat levels in order to prevent the long term health consequences of elevated liver fat.

The purpose of this project is to determine whether three months’ treatment with the study medication will decrease the fat content of the liver in the aim to potentially help to prevent the development of later life medical conditions.

This study seeks men who are overweight but otherwise healthy. Participants are required to attend 3 study visits at the research site over a 4 month period and will be compensated $500 for time spent participating in this study.

Why Participate? 

• You may experience a decrease in the amount of fat in your liver  
• You may experience an improvement in your overall health based on the decrease the amount of fat in the liver 
• You will be helping to potentially increase preventative care for metabolic disease, type 2 diabetes and fatty liver 
• You will be compensated $500 for time spent participating in this study.
• You will be helping to advance medical research.

Your Rights

• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you may withdraw at any time.
• Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by the law.
• Qualified health professionals will monitor your health as it relates to the study.

Who Can Participate?

• Men aged 20 – 50 years
• Are currently overweight 
• Are non-smokers
• Must be able to undergo an MRI scan
• Able to attend 3 study visits at the research site over approximately 4 months