Influence of pharmacological agents on portal hemodynamics: Basis for its use in the treatment of portal hypertension

Progress in the knowledge of the pathophysiology of portal hypertension has opened the door to pharmacological treatments, resulting in a dramatic cha nge in the therapeutic approach to portal hypertension. This review summari zes pharmacological agents that have bern shown to effectively decrease por tal pressure, paying special attention to its mechanisms of action. In addi tion, the way to monitor response and clinical efficacy of pharmacological agents is reviewed.