ESBRIET (Pirfenidone)

What is this medication?

ESBRIET (Pirfenidone)
Anti-Inflammatory; Anti-Fibrotic

ESBRIET (Pirfenidone) is a pyridone indicated for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

How does this medication work?

The mechanism of action of ESBRIET (Pirfenidone) in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is not well established.

How should I take this medication?

Oral: Take 1 tablet 3 times each day for days 1 through 7. Take 2  tablets 3 times each day for days 8 through 14. Take 3 (267 mg) tablets or 1 (801 mg) tablet daily on day 15 and each day after.

How to Take: Take at the same times each day with food; in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting ESBRIET (Pirfenidone), make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. Pirfenidone can make your skin sensitive to the sun and the light from sunlamps and tanning beds.  Use sunscreen (SPF 50) and wear a hat and clothes that cover your skin if you have to be in sunlight.  Avoid smoking as it may affect how well Pirfenidone works. Pirfenidone has been associated with serious adverse effects.  If you have symptoms such as yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eyes (jaundice), dark or brown (tea colored) urine, pain on the upper right side of your stomach area (abdomen), bleeding or bruising more easily than normal, and are feeling tired contact your doctor immediately.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss 14 days or more of ESBRIET (Pirfenidone), call your doctor right away for further instructions about how to take your medicine.  Do not take 2 doses at the same time to make up for your missed dose. 

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times.  Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C).  Protect from light.  Keep the container tightly closed.  Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Nausea, rash, abdominal pain, upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, dyspepsia, dizziness, vomiting, anorexia, gastro-esophageal reflux disease, sinusitis, insomnia, weight decreased, and arthralgia. 

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for ESBRIET (Pirfenidone), only common ones.