Liver scarring caused by alcoholism -- once thought permanent -- can be reversed through use of the drug sulphasalazine, a treatment for arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, British researchers say.

Medical News Today reported Sept. 26 that the University of Newcastle study found that the drug worked to heal fibrosis, or scarring, caused by cirrhosis of the liver. In animal studies, the drug reportedly stopped cells that create scar tissue in the liver from producing proteins that protect the scars, causing them to disappear as they would in a healthy liver.

If proven successful in humans, the drug could save lives and prevent former heavy drinkers from having to undergo liver transplants. Treatment could cost less than $20 per week.