Low-Dose erlotinib aims to stop liver cancer before it starts

NCT ID NCT04172779

Not yet recruiting Prevention Sponsor: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This phase II trial tests whether a low dose of the cancer drug erlotinib can prevent liver cancer in 60 adults with advanced liver fibrosis or cirrhosis. Participants will take either erlotinib or a placebo daily for a set period. The study will measure changes in a blood protein signature linked to liver cancer risk, rather than cancer itself, to see if the drug might lower that risk.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: erlotinib hydrochloride (low-dose)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a new way to 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 cancer risk and could cause side effects like rash or diarrhea.

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 fibrotic liver disease hepatocellular carcinoma prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ADVANCED LIVER FIBROSIS CIRRHOSIS, LIVER

Contacts and locations

Locations

UT Southwestern Medical Center

Dallas, Texas, 75390, United States

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