BENEFITS:
- Treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): Helps to slow the progression of IPF, a condition that causes scarring of the lungs and difficulty in breathing.
- Improved Lung Function: Aims to maintain lung function and reduce the decline in lung capacity over time.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Helps improve symptoms and quality of life for patients with IPF by managing the disease progression.
HOW IT WORKS:
Pirfenidone: An antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory agent that reduces the production of fibrosis-causing molecules in the body. It inhibits the synthesis of certain growth factors and cytokines involved in the fibrotic process, thereby slowing down the scarring of lung tissue.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE:
- Take the tablet orally with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
- Follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor, which typically involves starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it to minimize side effects.
- Do not crush, chew, or split the tablet; swallow it whole with water.
- Consistency is important; take the medication at the same time each day.
SIDE EFFECTS:
- Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, and rash.
- Serious: Severe skin reactions, liver problems (jaundice, dark urine), severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any severe side effects.
WARNINGS & PRECAUTIONS:
- Contraindications: Do not use if allergic to pirfenidone or any other components of the medication. Avoid use if you have severe liver or kidney disease.
- Consultation: Inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, especially liver or kidney problems. Provide a complete list of medications you are taking, including supplements and over-the-counter drugs.
- Interactions: May interact with certain medications such as antibiotics (ciprofloxacin), antifungals (ketoconazole), and medications metabolized by the liver. Discuss potential interactions with your doctor.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
- Dosage Adherence: Ensure the full course of treatment is completed as prescribed, even if symptoms improve. Skipping doses or stopping early can lead to treatment failure and worsen the condition.
Note: Always consult your doctor before taking any medication.