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Semin Liver Dis 1999; 19(4): 427-438
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1007130
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1999 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Influence of Pharmacological Agents on Portal Hemodynamics: Basis for Its Use in the Treatment of Portal Hypertension

Juan Carlos García-Pagán, Angels Escorsell, Eduardo Moitinho, Jaime Bosch
  • Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Liver Unit, IMD, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Spain
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Publication History

Publication Date:
17 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Progress in the knowledge of the pathophysiology of portal hypertension has opened the door to pharmacological treatments, resulting in a dramatic change in the therapeutic approach to portal hypertension. This review summarizes pharmacological agents that have been shown to effectively decrease portal pressure, paying special attention to its mechanisms of action. In addition, the way to monitor response and clinical efficacy of pharmacological agents is reviewed.

KEY WORDS

portal hypertension - liver cirrhosis - hemodynamics - portal pressure - esophageal and gastric varices