Pirfenox Tablet 200mg

About Pirfenox Tablet 200mg

Pirfenox Tablet 200mg Uses

• Treats mild to moderate idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in adults.
• Slows the ongoing decline in lung function seen in progressive pulmonary fibrosis.
• Helps limit further scarring of lung tissue in confirmed IPF cases.
• Used as part of a specialist managed long term respiratory treatment plan.

Pirfenox Tablet 200mg Benefits

• Helps preserve remaining lung capacity over time in IPF patients.
• May reduce the frequency of acute breathing flare ups.
• Supports better exercise tolerance when treatment starts early.
• Can extend the progression free period before lung function worsens further.

What Experts Say

Pulmonologists consider pirfenidone one of only two approved antifibrotic medicines for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis worldwide, the other being nintedanib. Specialists explain that starting treatment early, while lung function is still relatively preserved, gives patients the best chance of slowing disease progression over several years.

Doctors are clear that pirfenidone cannot reverse scarring that has already formed in the lungs. Its real benefit lies in slowing the rate of decline, so specialists set realistic goals with patients rather than promising improvement. Regular breathing tests help track how well the medicine is working for each person.

Respiratory physicians in Pakistan emphasize baseline and periodic liver function monitoring throughout therapy, since pirfenidone can affect the liver. They also advise strict sun protection, since the drug increases skin sensitivity to sunlight. Many specialists combine the tablet with pulmonary rehabilitation and supplemental oxygen for better daily function.

Drug Class

• Antifibrotic agent (pyridine derivative)

Pirfenox Tablet 200mg formula

• Pirfenidone

Available forms

• Tablet

How to use Pirfenox Tablet 200mg?

• Take Pirfenox tablets exactly as prescribed by your pulmonologist.
• Take each dose with food to reduce nausea and stomach upset.
• Follow the exact dose titration schedule your doctor sets when starting treatment.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
• Avoid direct sun exposure and use sunscreen, since this medicine increases skin sensitivity to sunlight.
• Do not stop the tablet suddenly without discussing it with your doctor.
• Keep all scheduled liver function tests during treatment.

Drug Interactions

• Fluvoxamine: This antidepressant strongly blocks the enzyme that clears pirfenidone, raising drug levels sharply, so combined use is usually avoided.
• Ciprofloxacin: This antibiotic can raise pirfenidone blood levels significantly, so doctors may lower the pirfenidone dose if both are needed together.
• Other CYP1A2 Inhibitors: Medicines that block the same liver enzyme can increase pirfenidone exposure and side effects.
• CYP1A2 Inducers: Substances that speed up this enzyme, including cigarette smoke, can lower pirfenidone levels and reduce its effect.
• Omeprazole: This acid reducing medicine may mildly affect pirfenidone levels, so your doctor may monitor more closely.

Risks and warnings

• Liver Function Monitoring: Your doctor checks liver enzymes before starting treatment and periodically afterward, since pirfenidone can raise liver enzyme levels.
• Photosensitivity: This medicine makes skin far more sensitive to sunlight, so sunburn and rash can occur quickly with sun exposure.
• Pregnancy And Breastfeeding: Safety in pregnancy is not established, so this tablet should only be used if clearly needed and advised by a specialist.
• Kidney Or Liver Impairment: Patients with significant kidney or liver disease need dose adjustment or closer monitoring.
• Smoking: Smoking lowers pirfenidone levels in the blood, so doctors strongly advise quitting before and during treatment.
• Not A Cure: This tablet slows lung scarring but does not reverse damage that has already occurred.

Pirfenox Tablet 200mg Side Effects

• Nausea and stomach upset
• Diarrhea or indigestion
• Loss of appetite and mild weight loss
• Fatigue and headache
• Dizziness
• Skin rash or sunburn like reaction after sun exposure
• Raised liver enzymes on blood tests
• Abdominal pain
• Acid reflux or heartburn
• Sleep disturbance

Storage Conditions

• Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place.
• Keep the tablets in their original blister pack to protect from light.
• Protect from moisture and keep away from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use beyond the expiry date printed on the pack.