Pirfenidone 200 mg

Pirfenidone 200 mg — Uses and Benefits

Pirfenidone is used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic lung disease in which scar tissue builds up in the lungs and makes breathing progressively difficult.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Slowing down the progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)
• Helping preserve lung function in people with this condition
• Reducing the rate of decline in breathing capacity over time

HOW IT WORKS

• It reduces the activity of substances in the body that cause fibroblasts to produce excess scar tissue
• It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help protect lung tissue
• It does not reverse existing scarring but slows further damage

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a cure for pulmonary fibrosis
• It is not used for asthma, COPD, or other common breathing problems
• It is not used for lung infections such as pneumonia or tuberculosis
• It is not a painkiller or a quick-relief inhaler substitute

This medicine should only be used under the supervision of a lung specialist (pulmonologist), with regular monitoring of lung function and blood tests.

How to Use Pirfenidone 200 mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while on this medicine
• Avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreen, as this medicine can make skin sensitive to sun
• Do not stop or change the dose on your own, even if you feel better
• Your doctor may start with a lower dose and gradually increase it

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember, with food
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses for more than a couple of days, consult your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and moisture
• Keep in the original packaging, away from light
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Pirfenidone 200 mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Indigestion or stomach discomfort
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Skin rash or sensitivity to sunlight

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Sleep disturbances
• Joint pain
• Reflux or heartburn

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe skin reaction, blistering, or peeling skin
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Severe or persistent vomiting or abdominal pain
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Pirfenidone 200 mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India and should be used under the care of a pulmonologist.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to pirfenidone or any ingredient in the formulation
• Have severe liver disease
• Have severe kidney disease requiring dialysis
• Are taking fluvoxamine or other strong CYP1A2 inhibitors

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any liver or kidney problems
• Are a smoker (smoking affects how this medicine works)
• Have a history of heart disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking other prescription or over-the-counter medicines or supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Fluvoxamine and other CYP1A2 inhibitors (can increase pirfenidone levels)
• Strong CYP1A2 inducers like rifampicin (can reduce effectiveness)
• Ciprofloxacin (may increase drug levels)
• Other medicines affecting the liver

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop this medicine once I feel better?

No, this medicine should only be stopped or adjusted under your doctor's guidance, as IPF requires long-term treatment.

Will this medicine cure my lung condition?

No, it slows the progression of scarring but does not reverse existing lung damage or cure the disease.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

• It is best to avoid or limit alcohol, as it may increase the risk of liver-related side effects; ask your doctor for guidance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.