Could a $10 cholesterol pill prevent liver cancer?

NCT ID NCT05028829

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether taking atorvastatin (Lipitor) daily for 48 weeks can reduce the risk of liver cancer in 60 adults with advanced liver fibrosis or cirrhosis. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either the drug or a placebo. The main goal is to see if atorvastatin lowers a blood-based risk score for liver cancer.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

atorvastatin (Lipitor)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could show that a common cholesterol drug helps prevent liver cancer in people with advanced liver scarring.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase trial (60 people) testing a biomarker, not cancer itself. The drug may not reduce actual cancer risk, and side effects like muscle pain or liver issues are possible.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cirrhosis of liver Fibrosis fibrotic liver disease liver disorder hepatocellular carcinoma prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Massachusetts General Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

  • University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    Dallas, Texas, 75390, United States

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact