Pulfibro
Pulfibro Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Pulfibro is a brand name. Its generic name is Pirfenidone.
Introduction
Pulfibro is a drug used in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal lung disease characterized by a thickening and scarring of the walls of the lungs leading to difficulty breathing and decreased air flow. By reducing inflammation and fibrosis, pirfenidone can help improve symptoms related to IPF.
Uses
Pulfibro is used to treat mild to moderate idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in adults. It may slow the progression of lung damage or improve lung function. It is not a cure, but it can help.
Mechanism of Action
Pulfibro blocks the production of chemical messengers called cytokines, which are responsible for causing inflammation in the lungs and other tissues. It also inhibits the protein kinase signalling pathway, which drives inflammation in the body. By blocking the actions of these cytokines and the protein kinase signalling pathway, pirfenidone helps to reduce inflammation and fibrosis in the lungs.
How Long Does It Take To Work?
Pulfibro may take several weeks or months to take full effect. The medication must be taken regularly as prescribed to be as effective as possible.
Absorption
Pulfibro is absorbed rapidly in the gastrointestinal tract. The maximum serum concentration of pirfenidone is usually reached within 1 to 3 hours after oral administration.
Route of Elimination
Pulfibro is mainly metabolised in the liver and then eliminated mainly via the kidneys. The primary metabolites are glucuronide conjugates, which are excreted in the urine.
Dosage
The recommended adult dose of pirfenidone is 2403 mg taken orally three times per day. For patients who cannot tolerate the full dose, the dose can be gradually increased over two weeks to the maximum recommended dose.
Administration
Pulfibro should be taken orally, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. It is important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to reduce the risk of serious side effects.
Side Effects
Common side effects of pirfenidone include nausea, vomiting, indigestion, stomach pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, dizziness, and fatigue. Other side effects may include dry skin and/or nails, difficulty sleeping, nightmares, low blood pressure, and rash. Serious side effects such as allergic reactions and liver damage may occur but are rare.
Toxicity
Pulfibro is generally well tolerated, and no major toxicity has been observed at the recommended dose. There is a potential for drug interactions, so it is important to discuss all medications and supplements you are taking with your doctor.
Precaution
Patients should inform their doctor of any changes in their health or any medications they are taking before taking pirfenidone. Patients should not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking pirfenidone as it may impair mental and physical abilities.
Interaction
Pulfibro may interact with other medications or supplements, such as antacids, antibiotics, or anti-fungal medications. It is important to discuss all medications and supplements with your doctor to avoid drug interactions.
Disease Interaction
Patients with kidney or liver disease, low blood pressure, or a history of seizures should be monitored closely by their doctor while taking pirfenidone.
Drug Interaction
Pulfibro may interact with other drugs such as antibiotics, anti-fungal medications, or antacids. Patients should inform their doctor of any and all medications that they are taking to avoid drug interactions. Medications that may interact with pirfenidone include omeprazole, itraconazole, and cimetidine.
Food Interactions
Pulfibro should be taken either 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. There are no known food interactions with this medication.
Pregnancy Use
Pulfibro should not be used during pregnancy. Consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking pirfenidone if you are pregnant.
Lactation Use
Pulfibro has not been studied in lactating women and its safety is not known. Women who are breastfeeding should not take pirfenidone.
Acute Overdose
In case of overdose, call 911 for emergency medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness.
Contraindication
Patients who have had an allergic reaction to pirfenidone should not use this medication. It should also not be used by pregnant or lactating women. Patients with liver or kidney disease, a history of seizures, or low blood pressure should consult their doctor before taking.
Use Direction
Pulfibro should be taken at least one hour before or two hours after meals, typically 3 times per day.Patients should not miss doses and should take the medication as prescribed to receive the full benefit. The medication should be taken with a full glass of water and patients should drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Storage Condition
Pulfibro should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. It should be kept in a safe place out of the reach of children and pets.
Volume Of Distribution
The volume of distribution of pirfenidone is around 126 L, indicating it is widely distributed to tissues.
Half Life
The half-life of pirfenidone is between 6 and 10 hours, indicating that the drug is cleared from the body relatively quickly.
Clearance
The clearance of pirfenidone is around 0.6 L/h, indicating that the drug is cleared from the body relatively quickly.
Here you find in details version of Pulfibro