Medications

Medications

Anti-fibrotic Agents

In Canada, there are two medications approved to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which is the most common form of pulmonary fibrosis/interstitial lung disease (ILD).

They include: 

  • nintedanib (Ofev®, PrJAMP Nintedanib)
  • pirfenidone (Esbriet®, Sandoz®, PrJAMP Pirfenidone). 

These medications are called anti-fibrotic agents because they work by slowing down the fibrosis (scarring) in the lungs. Currently, guidelines approve the use of nintedanib or pirfenidone, but not both together. 

Things to note:  

  • These medications cannot cure IPF 
  • They cannot reverse scarring  
  • They may help slow disease progression if regimen is strictly adhered to  
  • These medications have side effects and as a result may not be right for everyone 

There are a number of support programs available for those people whose treatment includes anti-fibrotic agents. Contact the drug manufacturers, your respirologist, or pharmacist for more information about what financial assistance is available. 

Supplemental Oxygen

Supplemental oxygen may be prescribed if your blood oxygen levels are low. When pulmonary fibrosis worsens, the fibrosis (scarring) in the lungs allow less oxygen to enter the blood. Oxygen in the blood is needed for all organs, including your brain to repair and function. 

Oxygen therapy: 

  • Is not a cure 
  • Does not stop disease progression or cure shortness of breath  
  • Helps treat low oxygen levels 
  • Helps protect vital organs such as your heart and brain 
  • Is considered a drug and must be prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner

When pulmonary fibrosis worsens, scarring makes it harder for oxygen to move into the bloodstream. Oxygen therapy ensures your body gets the oxygen it needs to function. 

For more information about oxygen therapy and Saskatchewan oxygen funding: 

Steroids 

Steroids, like prednisone, reduce inflammation (swelling), which can be useful in certain types of pulmonary fibrosis or during a flare-up, but not typically for IPF.  If the underlying cause of the pulmonary fibrosis is autoimmune related, steroids may be used with or without medications that suppress your immune system.  

Your healthcare provider will determine whether inflammation is a major part of your condition before prescribing steroids. 

Medications for Acid Reflux 

GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is common in people living with IPF. GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus (the tube connecting your throat to your stomach). 

Medications may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid and help manage symptoms such as heartburn or acid reflux, although some people do not have any reflux symptoms at all. Reducing reflux may help prevent small amounts of acids from being inhaled into the lungs (micro aspiration). Although research in this area is still ongoing.  

Medications for Cough 

A dry, ongoing cough is a common symptom of pulmonary fibrosis. 

Treatment can vary because what works for one person may not work for another. Options may include: 

  • Over-the-counter cough medications 
  • Prescription medications 
  • Other symptom management strategies (example: humidity)

Talk with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication. 

Lung Transplant

Lung transplant is not a medication but is a treatment for advanced ILD. Lung transplantation may be the last treatment option for people living with severe lung disease when other treatments are no longer effective. During a transplant procedure, one or both diseased lungs are surgically removed and replaced with healthy lungs from a donor. Lung transplantation is a complex process that carries significant risks and requires a lifelong commitment to medications and ongoing medical care. 

To learn more about the lung transplantation process, visit our website link: Lung Transplant | Lung Saskatchewan