[12, 76, 78–84] Indeed, in both animal
and human models,
statins significantly lowered portal hypertension pressure
and did not cause any untoward hemodynamic effects, thus improving hepatic perfusion. Moreover, when combined with nonselective beta blockers, the effects of statins were additive.[85, 86] The role of statins in preventing angiogenesis and inducing apoptosis has also been studied recently, perhaps presenting an opportunity for reducing the development of hepatocellular carcinoma.