Pirfenidone

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
	Esbriet

Pirfenidone - What is it for

It is used to treat mild to moderate idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (condition that causes reduced lung function and chronic shortness of breath due to excessive scarring and hardening of lung tissue).

The medication works by reducing fibrosis (thickening and scarring of lung tissue) in the lungs, hence delaying the progression of the disease and improving symptoms of breathlessness.

Pirfenidone - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Pirfenidone cause?

Common side effects include:

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, heartburn and abdominal pain

Take the medication after a meal to reduce gastric discomfort and nausea
Drink more water when having diarrhoea
These gastrointestinal side effects usually occur within the first 3 months of treatment and reduce over time

Giddiness, tiredness, headache

Take the medication after a meal to reduce giddiness
Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel giddy or tired

Weight loss

The doctor will monitor your weight while you are taking this medicine

Skin sensitivity to sun, rash, itch

This usually occurs in the first 6 months of treatment
Avoid prolonged exposure of skin to direct sunlight or sunlamps
When outside, use sunscreen (at least SPF 50) and wear protective clothing that cover your skin to avoid sunburns

Upper respiratory tract infection
Changes in taste
Joint pain
Insomnia

Most of these side effects will get better or go away as your body gets used to the medication.
Inform your doctor if the side effects above become severe and bothersome.

Rare but serious side effects include:

Liver problem: Signs include dark urine or light coloured stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellowing of your eyes or skin
Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis (severe skin reaction which may be life-threatening): Signs include red, flat or circular patches on the body, central blisters, skin peeling, ulcers of mouth, throat, nose, genitals and eyes, fever and flu-like symptoms

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
Difficulty in breathing
Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Before taking Pirfenidone , what precautions must I follow?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding (remove if not needed)
You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
You have liver disease and/or end stage kidney disease requiring dialysis
You are a smoker, and currently smoking

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Pirfenidone ?

Consult your healthcare professional if you are currently taking any other medications e.g. antidepressants or antibiotics, as it may increase levels of Pirfenidone in your body and lead to more side effects.

Pirfenidone - Dosage and How to Use

How should Pirfenidone be used?

Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
This medicine should be taken with or after food.
Swallow capsules whole with liquid. Do not open, chew, or crush the capsules.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember – each dose should be separated by at least 3 hours. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.