Could a $10 cholesterol pill prevent liver cancer?

NCT ID NCT05028829

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Raymond Chung Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

CIRRHOSIS LIVER FIBROSES

Contacts and locations

Locations

Massachusetts General Hospital
RECRUITING

Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
RECRUITING

Dallas, Texas, 75390, United States

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