Esbriet (Pirfenidone) is a prescription medication used to treat people with mild to moderate idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis causes the lungs to get scarred and become stiff, with increasing difficulty with breathing. The active ingredient in Esbriet is Pirfenidone. Pirfenidone belongs to the class of medication called Transforming Growth Factor Inhibitors. It works by blocking the action of a certain natural substance (transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta and TNF-alpha) in the body that is involved in causing fibrosis. Pirfenidone is not an inhaler and should not be used as a quick reliever in case of difficulty with breathing.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the generic Esbriet (Pirfenidone) from India also called Pirfenex manufactured by Cipla and from Canada (dispensed in a pharmacy vial) by a different manufacturer. The brand Esbriet is not available at the moment.
Get medical help immediately if you have signs of an allergic reaction while taking Esbriet. The most common side effects of Esbriet may include:
• Abdominal pain;
• Changes in taste;
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness;
• Fatigue;
• Loss of appetite;
• Headache;
• Nausea and vomiting
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, including:
• Loss of appetite;
• Nausea and vomiting that doesn’t stop;
• Severe skin reactions such as skin blisters, rash, and sores in the mouth;
• Severe abdominal pain;
• Weight loss;
• Worsening of symptoms
Before taking pirfenidone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or have any other allergies. Pirfenidone comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with food three times daily or according to your prescription label. You should take your medication around the exact times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. You should use your medication according to your prescription label. Do not take more or less of it or more often than your doctor prescribes. You should avoid smoking while using the Esbriet tablet. Smoking cigarettes or marijuana may worsen your condition. Esbriet may make you more sensitive to the sun. You should reduce the time you spend in the sun. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. This medication may make you feel dizzy. You should not drive or operate heavy machines until you are certain that you are very sure you can do it safely. If you develop difficulty with breathing or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor immediately for a review of your medication and clinical state.
Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
• Are a chronic smoker;
• Have had episodes of depression or seizures;
• Have kidney failure or impairment;
• Have liver problem;
• Have problems with your heartbeat
Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when needed. It would be best to discuss the risks and benefits of using Esbriet during pregnancy with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. Tell your doctor about all your medicines, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between pirfenidone and other medications such as carbamazepine, omeprazole, phenobarbital, primidone, and rifampin. You should store your Pirfenidone tablets at room temperature, away from light and water. Do not store it inside the fridge or in the bathroom.
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