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General Medication Fact Sheet for Pirfenidone
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Pirfenidone |
| Brand Name Versions | Esbriet |
| Boxed/Label Warning | May cause liver injury; monitor liver function tests regularly. |
| Purpose | Used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) |
| Mechanism of Action | The mechanism of action of pirfenidone is not fully understood, but it is thought to reduce lung fibrosis through multiple pathways, including decreasing the production of TGF-β and TNF-α. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets, Oral capsules |
| Available Strengths | 267 mg, 275 mg, 801 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically three times daily, with food |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, dyspepsia, anorexia, photosensitivity reaction, rash |
| Serious Side Effects | Liver injury, photosensitivity reactions, gastrointestinal disorders |
| Drug Interactions | CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine), CYP1A2 inducers (e.g., rifampin), medications that cause photosensitivity |
| Important Notes | Avoid excessive sun exposure due to photosensitivity risk; liver function tests should be monitored regularly. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light |
| Missed Dose | If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Nintedanib (Ofev), Lung transplant, Pulmonary rehabilitation |
Pirfenidone Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nintedanib (Ofev) | Tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets multiple growth factor receptors | Another approved medication for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. |
| Lung transplant | Surgical replacement of diseased lung | Considered for advanced cases of IPF when other treatments are not effective. |
| Pulmonary rehabilitation | Exercise and education program to improve lung function and quality of life | Supportive therapy to manage symptoms and improve daily activities. |
Pirfenidone Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Liver injury (increased liver enzymes) |
| Fatigue | Photosensitivity reactions (severe sunburn) |
| Diarrhea | Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) |
| Dyspepsia (indigestion) | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
Pirfenidone Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) | 267 mg three times daily (Days 1-7) | 801 mg three times daily (Days 15 onwards) | Take with food to reduce nausea. Dosage is gradually increased during the first 14 days. |
| Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) | 267 mg three times daily (Days 8-14) | Adjusted by physician as needed, based on tolerability. | Ensure adequate hydration. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. |
Pirfenidone Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $100 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $3,250 |
| From CPS | $476 |
