www.CarlosRemolinaMD.com
Pulmonary Fibrosis and Pirfenidone
There are multiple diseases that form the entity of Idiopathic Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis. Idiopathic Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis can be classified as multiple diseases including
1. Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia (COP)
2. Desquamative Interstitial Pneumonitis (DIP)
3. Usual Interstitial Pneumonitis (UIP)
Recently the food and drug administration approved the use of pirfenidone (Esbriet).
Most side effects are gastrointestinal like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain. They can also elevate liver function test and lead to rashes. These patients must be followed closely.
In our office, it is diagnosed with multiple tests, a CAT scan, 6 minute walks, and a biopsy. Once we start with the medication, we start with a very low dose. If they tolerate it well then we go to the next dose.
We also follow baseline liver function tests. If they become abnormal, they must stop the medication because of the side effects that could be developed. They are also followed with 6 minute walks.
It has been shown that pifenidone keeps the patients symptom free for a longer period of time.
If you are interested in learning more about Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis and pirfenidone, please call my office and we will be more than glad to speak to you. (908) 241 - 2030.
Carlos Remolina, M.D.
812 North Wood Ave
Linden, NJ
