What’s the matter with asthma after taking pirfenidone/asreli for three months?

Pirfenidone/Pirfenidone is an anti-fibrotic drug that has been shown to slow the progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). It does not cure the condition or reverse any existing scarring, but it may slow the rate of further lung function decline. Pirfenidone is currently only approved to treat IPF, not other forms of pulmonary fibrosis. If lung function is within standard limits (estimated forced vital capacity 50-80%), pirfenidone can be started.

Although pirfenidone is effective in controlling the condition, it is not a drug on its own that quickly relieves dyspnea. Pulmonary fibrosis is a disease that develops gradually, with a longer course and possibly worsening of symptoms. At the beginning of treatment, patients may feel the effects of the drug for a period of time, but as the disease progresses, pathological changes may continue to affect lung function, leading to worsening wheezing and dyspnea.

Some common side effects of pirfenidone in clinical use may also cause respiratory discomfort. Some patients may experience gastrointestinal reactions, such as nausea and vomiting, after taking this drug. These symptoms sometimes affect appetite and overall physical condition, indirectly leading to decreased physical strength and difficulty breathing. In addition, pirfenidone may cause abnormal liver function. If liver function is affected, it will have a negative impact on systemic status and further aggravate respiratory symptoms.

Additionally, environmental factors may also play an important role in a patient's respiratory condition. Wheezing may also worsen if the patient lives or works in an area with severe air pollution or is exposed to certain allergens. Seasonal changes and climate changes may also have an impact on the respiratory tract, especially when the humidity is high or the temperature drops suddenly, which can induce wheezing and dyspnea.