Investigating the effects of simvastatin on liver health in patients with cirrhosis
Effect of simvastatin on hepatic decompensation and death in subjects with high-risk compensated cirrhosis
This study is looking at whether simvastatin, a cholesterol-lowering medication, can help people with compensated cirrhosis avoid serious liver problems and improve their overall health and quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Philadelphia VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10975925 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on how simvastatin, a medication commonly used to lower cholesterol, may help patients with compensated cirrhosis who are at high risk for liver complications. The study will involve a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, meaning that participants will be randomly assigned to receive either simvastatin or a placebo without knowing which one they are receiving. The goal is to determine if simvastatin can prevent liver decompensation, reduce the risk of liver cancer, and improve overall survival rates. Additionally, the study will assess the quality of life for participants and the effects of simvastatin on portal hypertension, a common complication of cirrhosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans with compensated cirrhosis who are at high risk for hepatic decompensation.
Not a fit: Patients with decompensated cirrhosis or those who do not meet the criteria for high-risk compensated cirrhosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that significantly improve liver health and survival rates for patients with cirrhosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that statins may have beneficial effects in liver disease, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Philadelphia VA Medical Center — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaplan, David E — Philadelphia VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Kaplan, David E
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.