Pirfenidone 400 mg – Uses, Dosage & Mechanism of Action

Sep 04, 2025

Living with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) can be difficult. It is a progressive lung condition that causes scarring of lung tissue, leading to shortness of breath, fatigue, and reduced lung function over time. Fortunately, pirfenidone 400 mg offers hope.

PIRFENOID 400, developed by Steris Healthcare, is a trusted formulation of pirfenidone 400 mg, prescribed to slow down the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. If you or a loved one is dealing with this condition, understanding how pirfenidone 400 mg works and its benefits can help you manage the journey better.

What is Pirfenidone 400 mg?

Pirfenidone 400 mg is an oral antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory medicine approved for the treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF).

Sold under the brand name PIRFENOID 400, it helps reduce fibrosis (scarring) in the lungs, maintain better lung function, and slow down disease progression. It is commonly prescribed in combination with lifestyle modifications and regular lung function monitoring.

Pirfenidone 400 mg Uses

If you’re wondering what is pirfenidone used for, here are the primary pirfenidone 400 mg uses:

  • Treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)

  • Slows down lung scarring (fibrosis)

  • Helps preserve lung function over time

  • Reduces symptoms like chronic cough and breathlessness

This makes tab pirfenidone 400 mg a frontline treatment for managing fibrosis and supporting better respiratory health.

Pirfenidone Mechanism of Action

The pirfenidone mechanism of action is unique and targeted. It works by:

  • Inhibiting TGF-β (Transforming Growth Factor-beta), a key molecule that drives fibrosis

  • Suppressing pro-fibrotic and inflammatory cytokines

  • Reducing collagen synthesis and the accumulation of scar tissue in the lungs

By addressing these fibrotic pathways, pirfenidone 400 helps slow down the progression of lung damage in IPF patients.

Pirfenidone Side Effects

Like all medications, pirfenidone 400 mg can cause some side effects. Common ones include:

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Loss of appetite

  • Diarrhea

  • Rash or sensitivity to sunlight

  • Dizziness or fatigue

  • Elevated liver enzymes (monitored through blood tests)

Most side effects are mild and manageable. However, patients should report any discomfort or unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.

How Long Do You Take Pirfenidone?

A frequent question from patients is: how long do you take pirfenidone?

  • Pirfenidone 400 mg is a long-term therapy.

  • Treatment duration is typically months to years, depending on disease progression.

  • Continued usage is important to maintain its protective effect.

  • Your doctor will periodically assess lung function and decide whether to continue or adjust the dose.

How to Take PIRFENOID 400

  • Always follow your doctor’s prescription.

  • Typically, patients are prescribed one 400 mg tablet three times daily (total 1200 mg/day).

  • Take with food to minimize stomach discomfort.

  • Do not stop or change the dosage without medical advice.

  • Use sun protection as pirfenidone can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Dosage of Pirfenidone 400 mg

  • Recommended Dose: Usually prescribed as 400 mg three times daily with meals, or according to doctor guidance.

  • Administration: Take with food to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

  • Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless it is near the next scheduled dose. Avoid doubling the dose.

Important: Always follow your doctor’s instructions. Dose adjustments may be required for liver or kidney issues or side effects.

Precautions and Safety

  • Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems.

  • Protect your skin from sunlight as Pirfenidone can cause photosensitivity.

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use this medicine only if advised by a specialist.

  • Never start, stop, or adjust the dose without consulting your healthcare provider.

Why Choose Steris Healthcare’s PIRFENOID 400?

  • High-quality formulation: WHO-GMP certified for safety and consistent therapeutic effect.

  • Trusted by doctors: Steris Healthcare is recommended for chronic lung disease management.

  • Affordable and widely available across India.

  • Ensures patients receive a safe, effective, and reliable antifibrotic therapy.

Choosing PIRFENOID 400 ensures patients have access to a quality-assured medicine for managing pulmonary fibrosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is Pirfenidone 400 mg used for?
It is used to manage idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and slow the progression of chronic fibrosing lung diseases.

Q2. How should I take Pirfenidone 400 mg?
Take one 400 mg capsule three times daily with meals, or follow your doctor’s instructions.

Q3. How long does it take to see results?
Patients may notice stabilization in lung function after several weeks to a few months of continuous use.

Q4. Can children take Pirfenidone?
Pirfenidone is usually prescribed for adults. Pediatric use should only occur under specialist supervision.

Q5. What are common side effects?
Nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, and skin reactions are common; serious side effects are rare but require medical attention.

Conclusion

Pirfenidone 400 mg is an effective antifibrotic treatment for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and related chronic lung diseases. By slowing lung fibrosis and supporting lung function, it helps improve quality of life and reduce complications associated with chronic lung conditions.

For safe and effective pulmonary fibrosis management, choose PIRFENOID 400 from Steris Healthcare – a brand committed to quality, safety, and patient well-being.

 Take control of your lung health today. Consult your doctor about PIRFENOID 400 mg from Steris Healthcare for reliable pulmonary fibrosis management.

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