PULMOFIB 200 TABLET

💊🌿 Pirfenidone 200mg Tablet: Antifibrotic Therapy for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)

Pirfenidone 200mg is an oral antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory medication used to slow the progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)—a chronic, progressive, and ultimately fatal lung disease characterized by scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissue. By modulating inflammatory and fibrotic pathways, Pirfenidone helps improve lung function, quality of life, and survival rates in affected individuals. It is one of the first drugs approved specifically for IPF and has shown consistent benefits in clinical trials.

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Pirfenidone exerts antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, though its exact mechanism is not completely understood. It works by:

• Inhibiting transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β): A key molecule that drives fibrosis by stimulating collagen synthesis

• Blocking tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α): A pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in lung inflammation

• Suppressing fibroblast proliferation and reducing collagen production

This slows down the fibrotic process in lung tissues, helping to preserve respiratory function.

📌 Indications and Uses

Pirfenidone 200mg is indicated for:

• Treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)

  • Slows disease progression

  • Reduces lung function decline (measured by forced vital capacity – FVC)

  • May delay acute exacerbations and respiratory-related hospitalizations

It is often used as part of a long-term management plan under a pulmonologist’s supervision.

💊 Dosage and Administration

Pirfenidone therapy usually starts with a titration schedule to improve tolerability:

• Days 1–7: 200mg three times daily (600mg/day)

• Days 8–14: 400mg three times daily (1200mg/day)

• Day 15 onward: 600mg three times daily (1800mg/day – target dose)

Tablets should be taken with food to reduce nausea and gastrointestinal upset. If patients miss a dose, they should not double up but continue the next dose as scheduled.

Dose adjustments may be required in patients with:

• Liver impairment

• Photosensitivity

• Gastrointestinal intolerance

⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Liver function tests (LFTs) should be done before treatment and monitored monthly for the first 6 months

• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or UV light due to risk of photosensitivity rash

• Not recommended in:

  • Severe liver impairment

  • End-stage renal disease

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (unless clearly needed)

Use sunscreen and protective clothing to minimize sunlight-related skin reactions.

🤒 Side Effects

Common:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

• Loss of appetite, weight loss

• Fatigue

• Skin rash

• Dizziness

Less common but serious:

• Liver toxicity

• Photosensitivity reactions

• Interstitial lung disease exacerbation

• Hypersensitivity reactions

Discontinue treatment and seek medical attention if you develop signs of jaundice, severe skin rash, or shortness of breath.

🔄 Drug Interactions

• Ciprofloxacin, amiodarone, fluvoxamine may increase Pirfenidone levels—dose adjustments needed

• Avoid smoking, as it reduces the drug’s effectiveness

• Use cautiously with strong CYP1A2 inhibitors

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C

• Keep in a dry place, protected from light and moisture

• Keep out of reach of children

📝 Conclusion

Pirfenidone 200mg is a valuable therapy in the management of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, offering slowed disease progression and improved quality of life. With consistent dosing, sun protection, and regular monitoring, it serves as a lifesaving option in a disease with limited treatment alternatives. Early diagnosis and initiation of therapy are key to achieving the best outcomes.

Always follow your doctor’s advice, dosage instructions, and never self-medicate.