Pirfenidone
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Molecule Summary
| Uses | Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis |
| Therapy | Drugs For Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis |
| Side Effects | Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, heartburn, fatigue, sleepiness |
Medicines
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Molecule Description
Pirfenidone is used to treat a lung disease called Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). Pirfenidone is intended for use only in adults. It should be taken as directed by the doctor and at the prescribed dose and duration. Pirfenidone should be taken with or after food. You should avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and do not smoke while on treatment with Pirfenidone. Before using this medicine, inform the doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding, and about your detailed medical history.
Uses
Pirfenidone is used in adults for the treatment of a specific type of lung disease called Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF).
Contraindications
When should one not use Pirfenidone
- If you are allergic to Pirfenidone or any other ingredients of this medicine.
- If in the past while on treatment with Pirfenidone, you have experienced symptoms like swelling of the face, lips, tongue along with difficulty in breathing (angioedema).
- If you are suffering from a severe liver or kidney disease.
- If you are on fluvoxamine, a medicine used to treat your mental health.
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Heartburn
- Fatigue
- Sleepiness
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You have problems with your liver or kidneys.
- You are on tetracycline antibiotics like doxycycline, minocycline.
- You are a smoker, you should avoid smoking while on treatment with Pirfenidone as it reduces the effect of this medicine.
- You should avoid being in sunlight for too long.
- Your doctor may regularly monitor your weight, as this medicine may cause weight loss.
- Your doctor may also frequently ask you to get your blood test done while on treatment with Pirfenidone.
- Pirfenidone is not recommended for use in patients below 18 years of age.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
- Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis is a medical condition that causes the tissues in the lungs to swell and scar, making it difficult to breathe deeply and for the lungs to function properly.
- Pirfenidone works by reducing the swelling and scarring in the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Pirfenidone may interact with other medicines, discuss with your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbal preparations you are taking. Also, you should inform your doctor if you have a planned surgery or vaccination scheduled.
- Concomitant use of Pirfenidone along with medicines like enoxacin, ciprofloxacin (antibiotic), amiodarone, propafenone (used in heart problems), fluvoxamine (used to treat your mental health) may increase side effects of this medicine.
- Use of medicines like omeprazole (used in indigestion), rifampicin (antibiotic) along with Pirfenidone, may alter the way it works.
Interactions with food items
Pirfenidone should be taken with or after your meal to avoid stomach discomfort. Avoid consuming grapefruit juice while on treatment with Pirfenidone.
Dosage
Overdose
Seek urgent medical attention in case you have consumed too much of Pirfenidone medicine.
Missed a Dose
In case you've missed any dose of Pirfenidone, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose. Avoid taking a double dose to compensate for the missed dose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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