Pirfenidone
Pirfenidone
Pirfenidone is a medicine used to treat a lung illness known as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. IPF causes scar tissue to form within your lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Pirfenidone decreases scar tissue and suppresses the processes that cause scarring, thus helping preserve lung function.
Why Choose Pirfenidone?
- Slows Disease advancement: Clinical trials have indicated that Pirfenidone can reduce the advancement of IPF, allowing patients to maintain improved lung function over time.
- Pirfenidone, which targets lung scarring, helps improve some symptoms associated with IPF, including shortness of breath and exhaustion.
- Improves Quality of Life: Patients receiving Pirfenidone have reported a higher quality of life, including a greater capacity to participate in daily activities and exercise.
How to use Pirfenidone?
- Pirfenidone is given orally with food to prevent stomach distress.
- Typically, your healthcare professional will begin with a lesser dose to help your body adjust to the medicine before gradually rising to the full dose.
- The suggested dosage is often taken three times a day. It’s critical to distribute your doses evenly throughout the day.
- Take Pirfenidone at the same time every day to ensure a stable level of medication in your body.
Important Safety Information about Pirfenidone
- Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are vital for monitoring your lung function and adjusting your treatment as needed.
- Inform your doctor if you are taking any other drugs or supplements, as Pirfenidone may interfere with them.
- Pirfenidone can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and UV radiation, therefore avoid or restrict your exposure. When spending time outside, use protective gear and apply sunscreen.
- Talk to your doctor about any concerns or side effects you’re having while taking Pirfenidone.
Fact Table
| Facts | Details |
| Generic Name | Pirfenidone |
| Brand Names | Esbriet |
| Drug Class | Antifibrotic, Anti-inflammatory |
| FDA Approval | Approved for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) |
| Indications | Treatment of mild to moderate idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis |
| How It Works | Reduces fibroblast proliferation, inhibits collagen synthesis, and decreases TGF-beta-stimulated collagen production in the lungs |
| Administration Route | Oral |
| Dosage Form | Capsules, Tablets |
| Standard Dosage | Initial dose: 267 mg three times daily, with food. Gradually increased to 801 mg three times daily, based on tolerability |
| Key Side Effects | Nausea, Rash, Fatigue, Dyspepsia, Loss of appetite, Photosensitivity |
| Usage Instructions | Taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects; dose adjustments may be required based on tolerability and side effects |
| Precautions | Regular monitoring of liver function tests; avoid excessive sunlight/UV exposure; may interact with other medications |
| Monitoring Requirements | Liver function tests, renal function tests, and monitoring for photosensitivity reactions |
| Pregnancy Category | Consult with the healthcare provider |
| Drug Interactions | Can interact with CYP1A2 inhibitors like fluvoxamine; may require dose adjustment with CYP1A2 inducers |
| Mechanism of Action | Anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory actions affecting multiple pathways involved in fibroblast activity and inflammation in the lung |
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Pirfenidone can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Dyspepsia (indigestion)
- Loss of appetite
- Photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight)
If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.
How Can You Buy Pirfenidone?
You can order Pirfenidone using these methods on our website:
- Order Online
- Order by Phone
- Order by Fax
- Order your refills
Visit our How to order page.
