Drug Information: Forms, Strengths, Administration, and Additional Details on Ofev (Nintedanib)
For those diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and related fibrosing interstitial lung diseases, medication can play a crucial role in managing the condition. Two common drugs used for this purpose are Ofev (nintedanib) and Esbriet (pirfenidone).
Ofev (nintedanib) is typically dosed at 150 mg twice daily, taken approximately 12 hours apart with food. It belongs to the class of kinase inhibitors and is primarily used to slow fibrosis progression. However, it often causes gastrointestinal side effects, particularly diarrhea.
Liver enzymes should be monitored regularly, and dose reductions to 100 mg twice daily may be considered in cases of elevated liver enzymes or certain patient populations (e.g., low BMI, Asian ethnicity). It's important to note that Ofev is not available in a generic version.
Esbriet (pirfenidone) is usually prescribed at a dosage of 801 mg three times daily with food, after a 14-day titration period to improve tolerability. Dose reductions are common, occurring in about 50% of patients, to manage side effects such as gastrointestinal intolerance and photosensitivity.
In terms of side effects, both drugs can cause issues such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and hepatotoxicity risk (Ofev) or GI side effects, photosensitivity, and dose-related tolerability issues (Esbriet).
When it comes to administration, both drugs should be taken with food. For Ofev, it's recommended to take it about 12 hours apart, while Esbriet is taken three times daily.
In summary, both drugs are FDA-approved to slow IPF progression with different dosing schedules: Ofev is given twice daily while Esbriet is three times daily. Tolerability profiles influence dose adjustments—nintedanib dose reduction targets liver enzyme elevations, whereas pirfenidone dose reductions primarily address GI and tolerability issues.
If you have trouble swallowing capsules or experience side effects, it's essential to consult resources for assistance or discuss adjustments with your doctor. Regular monitoring of liver function and side effects is crucial when taking either medication. Before stopping Ofev, it's recommended to discuss this decision with your doctor.
Remember, this article is intended to provide general information and not serve as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised treatment recommendations.
[1] Richeldi L, et al. Nintedanib for the Treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. New England Journal of Medicine. 2014. [3] King TE Jr, et al. Nintedanib in Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Moderate to Severe Disease. New England Journal of Medicine. 2014. [5] Collard HR, et al. Pirfenidone in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. New England Journal of Medicine. 2014.
- For patients diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and related fibrosing interstitial lung diseases, both Ofev (nintedanib) and Esbriet (pirfenidone) are frequently used medications to manage the condition.
- Ofev, a kinase inhibitor, is typically dosed at 150 mg twice daily, taken approximately 12 hours apart with food, and is primarily used to slow fibrosis progression.
- Esbriet, on the other hand, is usually prescribed at a dosage of 801 mg three times daily with food, after a 14-day titration period to improve tolerability.
- Side effects for both drugs can include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, hepatotoxicity risk (Ofev), and GI side effects, photosensitivity, and dose-related tolerability issues (Esbriet).
- In discussing therapies and treatments for chronic diseases like IPF, health-and-wellness professionals should emphasize the importance of regular monitoring of liver function, side effects, and the crucial role that pharmacy science plays in developing such medical-conditions treatments.
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