To perform two randomized double-blind trials to investigate the safety, tolerability and efficacy of the combination of simvastatin plus rifaximin in patients with decompensated cirrhosis to halt progression to acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), decrease complications of the disease, reduce hospital readmissions, improve cost-effectiveness, improve patients quality-of-life, and increase survival.

To identify biomarkers of response to treatment and disease progression that can be useful in clinical practice.

To disseminate adequately the results of the study so that the information reaches the patient population who can benefit from this new therapeutic strategy.

To increase awareness about chronic liver diseases in European countries so that preventive measures can be established to decrease the burden of disease.

To reduce social stigmatization of patients with chronic liver diseases.