What is Pirfenidone?

Pirfenidone (Pirfenidone) is a new drug with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic properties. It can improve lung function and reduce the number of acute exacerbations (IPF) in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The exact mechanism of action of pirfenidone is not fully understood, but it is thought that the antioxidant effects of pirfenidone contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects, resulting in anti-fibrotic effects.

Scar formation(fibrosis) is regulated by several substances produced in the body during pre-fibrotic inflammation, which stimulate so-called fibroblasts (the main cells responsible for the formation of fibrosis). Although the role of pirfenidone in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is not fully understood, it may reduce the effects of these substances, thereby reducing scarring. The most common side effects of pirfenidone include nausea, rash, fatigue, diarrhea, indigestion (heartburn), loss of appetite, headache, and photosensitivity (a sunburn-like reaction after exposure to light).

Pirfenidone has been approved for marketing in China under the trade name of Asri. It has entered the scope of Class B medical insurance and is limited to patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The specifications produced by domestic pharmaceutical factoriesThe price of each box of 100mg*54 capsules is around RMB 500. There are also generic pirfenidone drugs produced in other countries overseas. For example, the price of a box of 200mg*30 tablets produced by an Indian pharmaceutical factory is around RMB 100 (the price may fluctuate due to the exchange rate). The ingredients of the generic drugs are basically the same as those of the original drug. For more drug information and specific prices, please consult Yaode Medical Consultant.