Esbriet tablets (Pirfenidone)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Esbriet tablets Used For?
Esbriet contains pirfenidone, which is used to manage Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a condition that causes lung tissue scarring and swelling, making it difficult to breathe.
Primary Uses
Esbriet is primarily used to treat Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF).
How It Works
Esbriet helps reduce lung scarring and swelling, improving breathing.
Good to know: Esbriet is not addictive.
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How to Take Esbriet tablets
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking Esbriet.
Dosage Instructions
The recommended dosage is: Days 1 to 7: one 267 mg tablet three times a day with food; Days 8 to 14: two 267 mg tablets or one 534 mg tablet three times a day with food; Day 15 onward: three 267 mg tablets or one 801 mg tablet three times a day with food.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but space doses by at least 3 hours. Do not take more than 3 doses in a day.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- skin reactions to sunlight
- rash or itching
- nausea
- tiredness
- diarrhea
- indigestion
- loss of appetite
- headache
- muscle aches
- dizziness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
- jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- dark urine
- abdominal pain
- easy bruising or bleeding
- swelling of face, lips, or tongue
- difficulty breathing or wheezing
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Esbriet.
Who Should Not Take Esbriet tablets
Do not take Esbriet if you are allergic to pirfenidone or any of its ingredients, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have severe liver or kidney problems.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of kidney or liver problems, and inform your doctor if you smoke.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Esbriet should not be taken during pregnancy as it may harm the developing baby. It's also advised not to breastfeed while taking this medication.
Drug Interactions
Esbriet may interact with certain medications.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit juice while taking Esbriet, as it may affect how the medication works.
- fluvoxamine
- tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline)
- ciprofloxacin
- enoxacin
- omeprazole
- rifampicin
- amiodarone
- propafenone
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol and driving while on Esbriet.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Esbriet may cause dizziness and tiredness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Storage
Store Esbriet tablets in their original bottle in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 immediately, or go to the nearest hospital, even if no symptoms are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Esbriet to show effects can vary by individual; continue taking it as prescribed for the best results.
Yes, Esbriet should be taken with or immediately after food to minimize side effects.
No, Esbriet is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Esbriet suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen your condition.
It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Esbriet due to potential increased side effects.
Esbriet may cause weight loss; your doctor will monitor your weight during treatment.
Elderly patients should discuss their overall health and any other medications with their doctor before taking Esbriet.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not take more than 3 doses in a day.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.