Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Case Discussion

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this report is to describe the case of a 68-year-old man who was treated for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic and fatal lung disease that is characterized by progressive deterioration of pulmonary function. He was initially prescribed pirfenidone and developed significant gastric distress. The treatment was transitioned to nintedanib. This article will provide the pharmacist with a therapeutic overview of IPF, as well as review the unique process involved with drug acquisition, dosing, patient education, and monitoring of pirfenidone and nintedanib. SETTINGS Community pharmacy, nursing facility pharmacy, consultant pharmacy practice. PRACTICE CONSIDERATIONS Pirfenidone and nintedanib are the only medications in the United States approved to treat IPF. These treatments have distinctive properties that differ from past therapies for IPF. CONCLUSION It is important for pharmacists to understand the treatment recommendations for IPF and to review the process for acquisition, dosing, and administration of pirfenidone and nintedanib to better assist physicians and patients and improve therapeutic outcomes.