Pirfenidone 801 mg

Pirfenidone 801 mg — Uses and Benefits

Pirfenidone 801 mg is mainly used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic lung condition where lung tissue becomes thick and scarred over time, making breathing difficult.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in adults
• Slowing down the progression of lung scarring
• Helping preserve lung function over time

HOW IT WORKS

• Reduces the activity of certain proteins and cells that cause fibrosis (scarring)
• Decreases the production of collagen that thickens lung tissue
• Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that support lung health

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for other types of lung diseases like asthma or COPD
• Not a cure for pulmonary fibrosis, only slows disease progression
• Not used for acute lung infections or pneumonia
• Not meant for short-term or occasional breathing problems

This medicine should only be used under the supervision of a specialist doctor, usually a pulmonologist, after proper diagnosis of IPF.

How to Use Pirfenidone 801 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 taking it on an empty stomach as it may increase nausea
• Avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreen, as this medicine can make skin sensitive to sunlight
• Do not stop the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, along with food
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take double the dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

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

Pirfenidone 801 mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Skin rash after sun exposure

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Weight loss
• Sleep disturbances
• Stomach discomfort or acidity
• Muscle or joint pain

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
• Severe skin reaction, blistering, or peeling
• Severe sensitivity to sunlight with burns or rash
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, or throat, and difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Severe vomiting or dark-coloured urine

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

Pirfenidone 801 mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under the guidance of a specialist doctor.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to pirfenidone or any of its ingredients
• 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, as smoking can reduce the effectiveness of this medicine
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of skin sensitivity to sunlight
• Are taking other medicines, including herbal or over-the-counter products

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Fluvoxamine (used for depression/OCD)
• Ciprofloxacin (an antibiotic)
• Strong inhibitors or inducers of CYP1A2 enzyme, such as certain antifungal or seizure medicines
• Smoking, which can affect how the medicine works in the body

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop this medicine once my breathing improves?

No, you should not stop without your doctor's advice, as IPF requires long-term management.

Will this medicine cure my lung scarring completely?

No, it helps slow down the progression of scarring but does not reverse existing damage.

Can I take this medicine if I smoke?

• Smoking can reduce its effectiveness, so it is best to quit smoking after discussing with your doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.