Pirfenidone instructions, usage and dosage, side effects

Pirfenidone is used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (unexplained scarring of the lungs). Pirfenidone belongs to a class of drugs called pyridones. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances in the body that cause fibrosis.

Dosage and dosage: The dosage and usage of pirfenidone must strictly follow the doctor's instructions. When treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, an ascending dose method is usually used, with 200 mg taken three times a day initially. Over the next two weeks, the dose was gradually increased by 200 mg each time, eventually maintaining a dose level of 600 mg each time (1800 mg daily). However, the specific maintenance dose may be adjusted according to the patient's clinical symptoms and tolerance. It is recommended to adjust the maintenance dose to more than 400 mg each time (1200 mg daily).

SIDE EFFECTS: Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple rash with blisters and swelling) while you are using pirfenidone.

Seek medical treatment if you have a serious drug reaction that affects many parts of the body. Symptoms may include rash, fever, swollen glands, muscle pain, severe weakness, unusual bruising, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Pirfenidone may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have: new or worsening problems with your stomach or esophagus, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, heartburnand pain in your stomach or esophagus; a rash on your face or arms that worsens in the sun; or liver problems—loss of appetite, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common side effects of pirfenidone may include: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite; stomach pain, heartburn, upset stomach; diarrhea; headache, dizziness, feeling tired; weight loss; joint pain; cold symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, sore throat; or sleep problems (insomnia). This is not a complete list of side effects, and other side effects may occur.

NOTES: Tell your doctor if you use other medications or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you have or have had: if you smoke; or liver or kidney disease. It's not known if pirfenidone can harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Ask your doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using pirfenidone.

Pirfenidone may make you sunburn more easily. Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds and other medications that may make your skin sensitive to the sun. When you are outdoors, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher). Avoid smoking while taking pirfenidone. Smoking may reduce the effectiveness of pirfenidone.

Storage: Store airtight at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.