What is Pirfenidone used for?

Pirfenidone is prescribed for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis which is a severe irreversible disease marked by a progressive decline in lung function. The scarring of lungs is caused by some unknown origin. The exact mechanism of action of pirfenidone is not known. Pirfenidone is thought to reduce the lung fibrosis (scarring and thickening of lungs) by decreasing the release or activity of naturally occurring substances in the body such as certain growth factors.

How does Pirfenidone work?

EUEMA:by INNUSDailyMed:Pirfenidone AU:B3 L04AX05(WHO) AU:S4(Prescription only)CA:℞-onlyUK:POM(Prescription only)US:℞-onlyEU:Rx-onlyIn general: ℞ (Prescription only) 5-Methyl-1-phenylpyridin-2-one 53179-13-8 40632 DB04951 37115 D7NLD2JX7U D01583Y CHEBI:32016Y ChEMBL1256391N DTXSID4045183 Interactive image CC1=CN(C(=O)C=C1)C2=CC=CC=C2 InChI=1S/C12H11NO/c1-10-7-8-12(14)13(9-10)11-5-3-2-4-6-11/h2-9H,1

What are the side effects of Pirfenidone?

Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, gastritis, GERD (gastro oesophageal reflux disease), loss of appetite, indigestion, abdominal pain, abdominal distension Skin: Photosensitivity, rash, itching and dry skin Central Nervous System: Dizziness, insomnia, and fatigue Respiratory: Sinusitis and upper respiratory infections Others: Increased liver enzymes, joint pain, weight loss

Does Pirfenidone interact with other medications?

Increase in the toxicity of pirfenidone may occur with the following drugs and hence their combined use with pirfenidone should be avoided. • Anti depressants such as fluvoxamine, fluoxetine and paroxetine • Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and chloramphenicol Decrease in the circulating plasma levels of pirfenidone could occur with drugs such as omeprazole .

What precautions should be taken with Pirfenidone?

• Liver enzymes could increase during pirfenidone therapy. The levels to be monitored for either temporary dosage adjustment or discontinuation of the therapy. • Rashes and sensitivity to sunlight, tanning beds and other fluorescent lamps can occur. Avoid direct sun exposure by using sunscreen (SPF- sun protection factor- 50 or even higher), protective clothing and sun glasses. • The safety of pirfenidone in children is not known.

What ATC class does Pirfenidone belong to?

Pirfenidone: ATC L04AX05. ATC is the WHO Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification — it groups drugs by organ system and pharmacological mechanism.

OTC

Pirfenidone

INN: pirfenidone

Data updated: 2026-05-12

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About This Product

Manufacturer

H.A.C. Pharma

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