Pirfenidone is used for pulmonary fibrosis (a scarring disorder of the lungs).
Take Pirfenidone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take this medicine together with food or immediately after a meal. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Pirfenidone is available as a tablet or as a capsule. Swallow it whole with a glass of water.
The regimen of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of your treatment.
Pirfenidone must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- severe liver disease
- severe kidney disease
as Pirfenidone may not be suitable for you.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Pirfenidone may cause sensitivity to light. Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid direct or prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- You may need to have routine liver function tests before and while you are being treated with Pirfenidone. Your doctor will advise you about how often you will need to have these tests.
- Monitoring of weight and stomach problems may also be needed.
If you smoke, you should try to quit. Smoking is harmful to your overall health and may interact with Pirfenidone. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about ways to kick your smoking habit.
Pirfenidone may cause dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects may include any of the following: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, indigestion, stomach wind, stomach discomfort or pain, loss of taste perception, loss of appetite, headache, drowsiness, difficulty sleeping, tiredness, weakness, weight loss, flush, chest pain, breathlessness, cough, muscle or joint pain, rash and itching, reddening or drying of skin.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine
- worsening of stomach pain
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- certain antibiotics e.g. enoxacin, ciprofloxacin
- medicines for heart disease e.g. amiodarone, propafenone
- medicines for depression e.g. fluvoxamine
- medicines that reduce acid production e.g. omeprazole
- medicines for tuberculosis or TB e.g. rifampicin
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Pirfenidone.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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