Pirfenidone is administered orally and is available in capsule form and should be taken orally with food as directed by your doctor, usually three times a day. Taking pirfenidone with food can help decrease dizziness and nausea, and starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it may help reduce the risk of side effects.
Make sure to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products. To ensure maximum benefits, take this medication at the same time each day and regularly as prescribed.
When first starting pirfenidone (Esbriet), you will need to follow a specific dose schedule.
- Week 1: Take 200 mg (1 pill) by mouth three times daily.
- Week 2: Take 400 mg (2 pills) by mouth three times daily.
- Week 3 and beyond: Take 801 (3 pills) by mouth three times daily. Pirfenidone (Esbriet) is also available as an 801 mg tablet, so you may eventually get to switch to 1 pill a day once you reach this maintenance dose.
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