Pirfenidone
Rx Only
Generic NamePirfenidone
Therapeutic ClassAntifibrotic Agent
Common Dose801 mg three times daily
Max / 24h2403 mg
PregnancyCategory C
Indications ▼
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)
Progressive fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (off-label in some settings)
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Reduces fibroblast proliferation and inhibits transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and other pro-fibrotic cytokines, slowing progression of pulmonary fibrosis.
Pharmacokinetics: Rapid oral absorption; peak plasma levels within 30 minutes to 4 hours. Metabolized mainly by CYP1A2; eliminated via urine as metabolites. Half-life approximately 2–3 hours.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (IPF) | Titrate over 14 days to 801 mg orally three times daily | 2403 mg |
| Elderly | Same as adults; monitor liver function | 2403 mg |
| Hepatic Impairment (Mild–Moderate) | Use cautiously; monitor LFTs regularly | 2403 mg |
| Renal Impairment (Severe) | Use with caution; limited data available | 2403 mg |
Note: Take with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Regular liver function monitoring is required.
Side Effects ▼
Common: Nausea, dyspepsia, diarrhea, fatigue
Occasional: Photosensitivity rash, anorexia, dizziness
Rare: Elevated liver enzymes, severe skin reactions
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to pirfenidone
Severe hepatic impairment
Concomitant use with strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine)
Drug Interaction ▼
CYP1A2 inhibitors (fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin): increase pirfenidone levels
Smoking: decreases plasma concentration
Other hepatotoxic drugs: monitor liver function
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Category C; use only if potential benefit justifies risk
Unknown if excreted in breast milk; caution advised
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Slows decline in lung function in patients with IPF.
Reduces risk of disease progression and acute exacerbations.
Improves progression-free survival in clinical trials.
Generally well tolerated with manageable gastrointestinal effects.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Take with meals to reduce stomach upset.
Avoid excessive sun exposure; use sunscreen.
Report signs of liver problems (yellowing of skin, dark urine).
Avoid smoking during treatment.
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at 20–25°C
Protect from moisture and light
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Bangladesh:
Fenidone® 267 mg
Fenidone® 801 mg
Pirfedone® 267 mg
Pirfedone® 534 mg
Pirfedone® 801 mg
Pirfinex® 267 mg
Pulbo® 267 mg
Pulbo® 534 mg
Pulbo® 801 mg
Pulfibro® 267 mg
Pulfibro® 534 mg
Pulfibro® 801 mg
Pulmidone® 267 mg
Pulmidone® 801 mg
Pulmobi® 267 mg
Pulmobi® 534 mg
Pulmobi® 801 mg
Pulmofib® 267 mg
Pulmofib® 534 mg
Pulmofib® 801 mg
Pulmosis® 267 mg
Pulmosis® 534 mg
Pulmosis® 801 mg
Pulmova® 267 mg
Pulmova® 801 mg
Global:
Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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