This is a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study evaluating the effects of UDCA
on peripheral blood flow and immune function in patients with stable chronic heart failure
(CHF). Sixteen patients with CHF will be recruited from the heart failure clinic at the Royal
Brompton Hospital. Following baseline evaluation, patients will be randomised to receive
either placebo or UDCA at a dose of 1000 mg/day for a period of four weeks. They will then
undergo repeat evaluation (peripheral blood flow and immune function). A four week washout
period will then take place before the patients cross-over to receive the respective other
therapy for a further four weeks (i.e. those first receiving placebo will go onto receive
UDCA and vice versa). The study will be completed after a total of twelve weeks, with a final
assessment (peripheral blood flow and immune function).