Pirfenidone 200 mg (Pirfenex)

What is Pirfenidone 200 mg?

Pirfenidone 200 mg, sold under the brand name Pirfenex, is an antifibrotic medication used primarily to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a progressive lung disease that causes scarring of lung tissue and breathing difficulty. Manufactured by Cipla, Pirfenex helps slow the progression of IPF and improves quality of life for patients. Pirfenidone 200 mg is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Pirfenidone, which is classified as an antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory agent. It is primarily indicated for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a rare but serious lung disease with no known cause or cure.

By slowing the progression of fibrosis (scarring) in the lungs, Pirfenidone helps maintain lung function and improves breathing over time.

How Does Pirfenidone 200 mg Work?

Pirfenidone works by reducing inflammation and preventing the buildup of scar tissue in the lungs. It acts on multiple pathways:

• Inhibits TGF-β (Transforming Growth Factor-beta), a cytokine responsible for fibrosis

• Reduces production of fibroblasts, the cells that cause scarring

• Exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

By doing this, Pirfenidone slows lung function decline in patients with IPF and may extend life expectancy when taken consistently.

Benefits of Pirfenidone 200 mg

Pirfenidone 200 mg provides essential benefits for those diagnosed with IPF:

1. Slows Progression of IPF

Clinical studies show that Pirfenidone can reduce the rate of lung function decline in patients with IPF over a 6–12 month period.

2. Improves Exercise Tolerance

By preserving lung capacity, Pirfenidone helps patients stay active and mobile for longer periods.

3. Delays Acute Exacerbations

Regular use of Pirfenidone reduces the risk of sudden worsening episodes, which are dangerous in IPF patients.

4. Improves Quality of Life

Even though IPF is not curable, Pirfenidone provides symptom relief and slows disease progression, improving day-to-day functioning.How to Take Pirfenidone 200 mg?

Initial Dosage and Titration:

To minimize side effects, Pirfenidone is typically started at a lower dose and gradually increased over a 2-week period:

• Week 1: 200 mg three times a day (600 mg/day)

• Week 2: 400 mg three times a day (1,200 mg/day)

• Week 3 and onward: 600 mg three times a day (1,800 mg/day)

Your doctor will guide this titration schedule carefully.

Administration Tips:

• Take the medicine with food to reduce nausea and dizziness

• Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush or chew

• Stay hydrated and avoid direct sunlight (photosensitivity risk)

Who Makes Pirfenidone 200 mg (Pirfenex)?

Pirfenex is a branded version of Pirfenidone 200 mg manufactured by Cipla Ltd, one of India’s leading pharmaceutical companies with a global reputation. Cipla is well known for producing cost-effective, high-quality medications across multiple therapeutic areas.

Other generic brands of Pirfenidone may be available internationally, but Pirfenex is among the most commonly prescribed in India and many developing countries.

Is Pirfenidone 200 mg Safe for Humans?

Pirfenidone is FDA-approved and considered safe when used under medical supervision. It is intended for adults only, and should not be used in children or pregnant women unless specifically directed.

Precautions:

• Avoid alcohol and smoking (can worsen liver function or IPF progression)

• Regular liver function tests (LFTs) are required during treatment

• Use sunblock and protective clothing due to risk of photosensitivity

Always discuss your full medical history with your doctor before starting Pirfenidone.

Side Effects of Pirfenidone 200 mg

While many patients tolerate Pirfenidone well, side effects may occur, especially during the first few weeks.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Indigestion

• Fatigue

• Skin rash

• Dizziness

• Loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver enzyme elevation (hepatotoxicity)

• Severe rash or peeling

• Photosensitivity reactions

• Shortness of breath or new/worsening cough

If serious side effects occur, seek immediate medical attention. Regular monitoring helps reduce risks.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or stopping Pirfenidone 200 mg (Pirfenex) or any other prescription drug. Dosages, safety, and treatment plans must be tailored to individual needs by a medical professional.