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The Role of Statins in Cirrhosis

  • Liver (E Tapper, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of review

To critically analyze current evidence regarding the role of statins in cirrhosis with particular emphasis on the source of the evidence.

Recent findings.

Most evidence is from observational studies; the few data of clinical trials does not support using statins to prevent rebleeding, but suggests that properly designed trials should be conducted to assess a potential disease-modifying effect. Current evidence is not enough to support their use in prevention of decompensation, acute-on-chronic liver failure, hepatocellular carcinoma, infection, or mortality. Regarding safety, outside of clinical trials, statins are not contraindicated in patients with compensated cirrhosis. In patients with early decompensated cirrhosis, they should be used with caution or deprescribed. In Child–Pugh C patients, statins are contraindicated.

Summary

Current evidence is not enough to support the use of statins in patients with cirrhosis for any other indication than treatment of dyslipidemia and/or to reduce cardiovascular risk. However, current ongoing trials will answer if their role can be expanded to improve cirrhosis outcomes.

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References and Recommended Reading

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  1. Carlos Moctezuma-Velazquez Juan Gonzalez Abraldes Both authors equally contributed to this manuscript.

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  1. Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, 1-51 Zeidler Ledcor Centre, 8540 112 St NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2X8, Canada

    Carlos Moctezuma-Velazquez MD, MSc

  2. Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, 1-38 Zeidler Ledcor Centre, 8540 112 St NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2X8, Canada

    Juan Gonzalez Abraldes MD, PhD

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  1. Carlos Moctezuma-Velazquez MD, MSc
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Correspondence to Carlos Moctezuma-Velazquez MD, MSc or Juan Gonzalez Abraldes MD, PhD.

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Moctezuma-Velazquez, C., Abraldes, J.G. The Role of Statins in Cirrhosis. Curr Treat Options Gastro 20, 316–335 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11938-022-00394-x

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