Pirfemac 400 Tablet
Manufacturer
Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
Salt Composition
Pirfenidone (400mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Pirfemac 400 Tablet is a prescription medicine used in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. It reduces scarring and swelling in the lungs and helps to breathe better.
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Pirfemac 400 Tablet is best taken with food. Take it at the same time every day to get the most benefits. The dose and how often you take it depends on what you are taking it for. Your doctor will decide how much you need to improve your symptoms. You should take this medicine for as long as it is prescribed for you. The most common side effects of this medicine include insomnia, headache, dizziness, dyspepsia, nausea, diarrhea, and photosensitivity. To overcome dizziness, avoid driving or attention-seeking activity. Some people may experience weight loss and other side effects. Monitor your weight regularly or ask for the doctor's advice in such cases. Your doctor also may perform a liver function test while on treatment with this medicine.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Pirfemac 400 Tablet is to be taken with food.
How it works
Pirfemac 400 Tablet is an antifibrotic medication. It works by blocking the action of a certain natural substance in the body that is involved in causing fibrosis. This reduces the scarring and swelling in the lungs and makes breathing easier.
Quick Tips
Pirfemac 400 Tablet reduces scarring and swelling in the lungs and helps you breathe better. It is best to take this medicine with food and at the same time each day. This medication may make you more sensitive to sun. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Stop smoking during treatment with Pirfemac 400 Tablet as it can reduce the effect of the treatment. It may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you. It may cause weight loss. Monitor your weight regularly. Your doctor may check your liver function regularly. Inform your doctor if you develop abdominal pain, loss of appetite, darkened urine or yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice).
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Frequently asked questions
What monitoring will I need during treatment with Pirfemac 400 Tablet?
Your doctor will perform a liver function test before starting treatment with Pirfemac 400 Tablet. This test will be repeated monthly for the first six months and then every three months. In addition, your doctor may also monitor your lung function periodically to assess the response to Pirfemac 400 Tablet.
Why is it important to continue treatment with Pirfemac 400 Tablet?
It's essential to control the progression of the disease by preserving lung function, which cannot be restored once lost. Therefore, continuing treatment with Pirfemac 400 Tablet as prescribed by your doctor is highly recommended. This can help preserve existing lung function.
What are the side effects of Pirfemac 400 Tablet?
Common side effects of Pirfemac 400 Tablet include skin sensitivity to sunlight, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, indigestion or upset stomach, loss of appetite, and headache. Other common side effects include throat or airway infections, bladder infections, weight loss, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, sleepiness, changes in taste, hot flushes, shortness of breath, and cough. Additionally, one may experience stomach problems such as acid reflux, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, heartburn, constipation, skin problems like itchy skin, redness, or red rashes, muscle pain, aching joints/joint pains, weakness, chest pain, and sunburn. It's possible that after using Pirfemac 400 Tablet blood tests may show increased levels of liver enzymes.
Is Pirfemac 400 Tablet a steroid?
No, Pirfemac 400 Tablet is not a steroid. It belongs to the pyridines group of medications. It's used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in adults. IPF involves lung tissue scarring and swelling over time, which causes breathing problems. This medication helps reduce these effects for better breathing.
How do I know that Pirfemac 400 Tablet is right for me?
Only you and your doctor can determine if Pirfemac 400 Tablet is appropriate for you. Your doctor will only prescribe Pirfemac 400 Tablet after evaluating your condition. Based on your response to treatment and tolerability, continue taking the medication.
If my disease is stable can I stop Pirfemac 400 Tablet?
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease. Its progression is unpredictable. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor. Continue taking Pirfemac 400 Tablet to slow down the progression of the disease.
What should I avoid while taking Pirfemac 400 Tablet?
When using Pirfemac 400 Tablet, you should limit sun exposure. Apply sunscreen daily and cover exposed areas (arms, legs, head) to reduce sunlight contact. Additionally, avoid smoking as it can decrease the medication's effect.
What is the survival rate of pulmonary fibrosis?
The median survival time for patients with pulmonary fibrosis is 2-3 years, but some live much longer. Factors influencing shorter survival include advanced age, smoking history, and lower body mass index. Other factors involve a severe disease course, as assessed by radiographic findings and physical impairment, and the development of other lung complications or conditions.
