Medication information

Sandoz Pirfenidone 801mg tablet

This medication is typically used for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.

Instructions

This medication is typically used 3 times a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Take it regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects.

Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. This medication should be swallowed whole. It should not be split, crushed or chewed.

If you forget a dose, simply skip it and then take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. It is preferable to take this medication with a meal or a snack in order to reduce side effects.

Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during your treatment. Grapefruit can seriously affect how this medication works.

Side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

  • it may cause headaches;
  • it may cause diarrhea;
  • it may cause dizziness - use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position and use caution if driving;
  • it may cause unusual tiredness;
  • it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting;
  • it may make your skin more sensitive to UV rays (e.g., sunlight, tanning lamps) - avoid exposure to UV rays as much as possible and protect yourself when out in the sun.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

General notes

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

  • Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
  • If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
  • If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
  • The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.


It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.