Could a common cholesterol drug help slow liver failure?

NCT ID NCT06764966

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests whether adding the statin atorvastatin to a standard beta blocker can help people with decompensated cirrhosis, a severe form of liver disease. Fifty participants will receive either atorvastatin plus their usual beta blocker or a placebo plus beta blocker, and be followed for 12 months. The goal is to see if the combination is safe, feasible, and may reduce complications like fluid buildup or bleeding.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
Atorvastatin (a statin drug) plus a non-selective beta-blocker
What this could lead to
If successful, this could point toward a new combination therapy to slow liver disease worsening and reduce serious complications in cirrhosis patients.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early pilot study with only 50 participants, so results may not apply broadly. Statins have historically been avoided in liver disease due to safety concerns, though emerging evidence suggests they may be safe.

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.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Charleston Area Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    Charleston, West Virginia, 25304, United States

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