Pirfenex (Pirfenidone) is a prescription medication used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This condition is chronic and progressive and causes thickening, scarring, and stiffening of the lung tissue, making it difficult to breathe. The active ingredient in Pirfenex is Pirfenidone. Pirfenidone belongs to a class of drugs called pyridones. It works by blocking the action of natural substances in the body that is involved in causing fibrosis. The drug slows down the formation of scar tissue in the lungs.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Pirfenex from India also called Pirfetab by Zydus. The generic Pirfenidone is also available from Canada by a different manufacturer.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Pirfenex. The most common side effects of Pirfenex may include the following:
• Appetite loss;
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness;
• Headache;
• Nausea
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Severe skin rash;
• Sunburn;
• Weight loss
These are not all of the side effects of Pirfenex. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Pirfenex if you are allergic to Pirfenidone or any ingredient in Pirfenex. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have liver disease
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Pirfenex and other medicines, like rifampin, phenytoin, ciprofloxacin, amiodarone, teriflunomide, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Pirfenex may harm your unborn baby. It is unknown if Pirfenidone passes into breast milk or if it may affect a nursing infant. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Pirfenex is a tablet. Swallow the tablets whole with water, and do not crush or chew. Take the drug by mouth with food. Taking this drug with food may help reduce dizziness and nausea. Take this drug at the same times each day to help you remember to take it. Do not stop this drug without talking to your doctor to prevent worsening your condition. Avoid smoking when using Pirfenex. It can increase the side effects of the drug. This medication can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and heat. Avoid direct exposure to the sun when using this drug. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when going out in the sun. Pirfenex can make you dizzy. Do not drive or perform activities that require alertness until you can safely do them. Avoid consuming grapefruit products when using this drug. It can increase the severity of the side effects. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.