Pirfenex 600 Tablet
Manufacturer
Cipla Ltd
Salt Composition
Pirfenidone (600mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Pirfenex 600mg 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
Pirfenex 600mg 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. Pirfenex 600mg Tablet is to be taken with food.
How it works
Pirfenex 600mg 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
Pirfenex 600mg 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 Pirfenex 600mg 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. It may cause liver function changes. Inform your doctor if you develop abdominal pain, loss of appetite, darkened urine or yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice).
Frequently asked questions
What monitoring will I need during treatment with Pirfenex 600mg Tablet?
Your doctor will check your liver function before starting treatment with Pirfenex 600mg Tablet. This test will be repeated monthly for the first six months and then it will be done every three months. In addition to that, your doctor will also monitor your lung function periodically to see the response to Pirfenex 600mg Tablet.
Why is it important to continue treatment with Pirfenex 600mg Tablet?
Continuing treatment with Pirfenex 600mg Tablet is crucial for managing the progression of the disease. This will help maintain lung function, which cannot be regained once lost. It is essential to follow your doctor's instructions regarding medication and dosage as prescribed.
What are the side effects of Pirfenex 600mg Tablet?
Common side effects of Pirfenex 600mg Tablet include skin sensitivity to sunlight, nausea, tiredness, diarrhea, indigestion, loss of appetite, and headaches. Other common side effects may involve infections of the throat or airways, bladder infections, weight loss, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, sleepiness, changes in taste, hot flushes, shortness of breath, and a cough. Additionally, individuals may experience stomach problems such as acid reflux, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain and discomfort, heartburn, constipation, skin problems like itchy skin, redness or red skin, dry skin, skin rash, muscle pain, aching joints/joint pains, weakness, chest pain, and sunburn. It's also possible that after using Pirfenex 600mg Tablet blood tests may show increased levels of liver enzymes.
Is Pirfenex 600mg Tablet a steroid?
No, Pirfenex 600mg Tablet is not a steroid. It belongs to the pyridines group of medications. It is used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in adults. In IPF, lung tissues scar and swell over time, leading to breathing problems. This medication helps reduce these effects to improve breathing.
How do I know that Pirfenex 600mg Tablet is right for me?
Only you and your doctor can decide if Pirfenex 600mg Tablet is right for you. Your doctor will only prescribe it after assessing your condition. Based on your response to treatment and tolerability, you should continue the medication.
If my disease is stable can I stop Pirfenex 600mg Tablet?
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) progresses in unpredictable ways. Do not discontinue this medication without consulting your doctor. Continue taking Pirfenex 600mg Tablet to slow down the progression of IPF.
What should I avoid while taking Pirfenex 600mg Tablet?
To minimize side effects and improve treatment effectiveness, avoid excessive sun exposure while taking Pirfenex 600mg Tablet. Use sunscreen daily, wear protective clothing for arms, legs, and head to reduce sunlight exposure. Avoid smoking as it can hinder the medication's impact.
What is the survival rate of pulmonary fibrosis?
The median survival time for patients with pulmonary fibrosis is 2-3 years, but some individuals live longer. Factors contributing to shortened survival include older age, a history of smoking, and a lower body mass index. Other factors might be more severe lung damage as seen on X-ray or physical examination, development of other respiratory complications, or the presence of additional medical conditions.
