MedicinePOM

Pirfenidone

A capsule that slows lung scarring in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Clinical information

Common uses

idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)

Common side effects

feeling sick
rash
stomach pain
tiredness
diarrhoea

Cautions

liver injury, sometimes fatal — regular liver blood tests needed
sun sensitivity — avoid sunlight and sunlamps, use sunscreen
severe skin reactions require stopping permanently
not recommended in severe liver disease or dialysis

Interactions

fluvoxamine and other strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (reduce dose or avoid)
ciprofloxacin (dose reduction may be needed)
smoking (lowers drug levels, may reduce effect)

Pregnancy: human data limited — talk to your doctor

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: DailyMed, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov, pirfenidone label, setid 3115f15f-171c-4266-8dc8-5655f56e6acc (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations2

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
Pirfenidone	Capsule ( Hard gelatin Capsule )	267mg	—	POM
Pirfenidone	Tablet	200mg	—	POM