Pirfenidone (Esbriet) is an important prescription medication for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), playing an irreplaceable role in helping patients slow down the decline of lung function. How to legally obtain genuine drugs and avoid medication risks has become a key concern for patients and their families.
What Are the Purchasing Channels for Pirfenidone (Esbriet)?
Overseas Purchase
Patients can choose to consult and purchase pirfenidone at hospital pharmacies or licensed pharmacies in countries or regions where the drug has been approved for marketing.
Since drug prices may be affected by factors such as regional differences and exchange rate fluctuations, patients need to make budget and planning before purchasing.
Purchase via Medical Service Institutions
Patients can consult domestic overseas medical service institutions that cooperate with international pharmacies or pharmaceutical companies.
These institutions can usually provide legal import channels and offer professional consultation and guidance.
Precautions for Purchasing Pirfenidone (Esbriet)
Pre-Treatment Assessment System
Complete liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin).
Evaluation of renal function status (creatinine clearance rate).
Screening of smoking status and smoking cessation guidance.
Prevention and Control of High-Risk Adverse Events
Hepatotoxicity risk: Clinical data show that 3.7% of patients have ALT/AST levels ≥3 times the upper limit of normal. Liver function must be tested monthly for the first 6 months, and then regularly re-examined every 3 months thereafter.
Photosensitivity reaction: Approximately 9% of patients experience photosensitivity reactions, and protective measures are required: use SPF50+ sunscreen, wear sun-protective clothing, and avoid sunlight and ultraviolet light sources.
Medication Use in Special Populations
Patients with liver impairment: Use with caution in patients with moderate to severe liver impairment (Child-Pugh Class B/C).
Renal insufficiency: Prohibited in patients with end-stage renal disease.
Smokers: Tobacco significantly reduces blood drug concentration, and complete smoking cessation is required before treatment.
Authenticity Identification of Pirfenidone (Esbriet)
Packaging Specification Certification
Capsules: White to off-white hard gelatin capsules with brown printing "PFD267mg" on the cap.
Film-coated tablets: 267mg yellow tablets.
801mg brown tablets.
National Drug Code: NDC 50242-121-01 (270-count bottle).
NDC 50242-122-05 (267mg tablet combination pack).
Physical Characteristic Identification
The capsule contents are 267mg of pirfenidone powder.
The tablets are oval biconvex in structure, imprinted with the "PFD" logo.
Quality Traceability
Check the latest label information through the official website of the US FDA.
Verify the imported batch number in the database of the drug regulatory authority.
Scan the packaging traceability code to verify the circulation path.
