Can a protein shake keep liver patients out of the hospital?

NCT ID NCT04096014

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether taking a protein supplement (Ensure Enlive) in the late evening and early morning can reduce hospital readmissions for people with hepatic encephalopathy, a brain condition caused by liver disease. The trial enrolls 40 adults with cirrhosis who have been hospitalized for this condition in the past year. Participants either receive the supplement for 180 days or continue standard care, and researchers track how many are readmitted.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Ensure Enlive (protein supplement)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple dietary way to reduce hospital readmissions for people with liver-related brain fog.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with only 40 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The supplement may not lower readmission rates as hoped.

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 hepatic encephalopathy

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

  • Cleveland Clinic Foundation

    RECRUITING

    Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, United States

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

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact