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

NCT ID NCT04096014

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: The Cleveland Clinic Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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 hepatic encephalopathy

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Cleveland Clinic Foundation
RECRUITING

Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, United States

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