Drug interactions
Pirfenidone + Rifampin
Severity: Major
Pirfenidone and Rifampin: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Rifampin induces several CYP enzymes and can lower pirfenidone exposure, risking loss of efficacy in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
What this interaction means in plain words
Pirfenidone and Rifampin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Rifampin induces CYP1A2 and other CYP enzymes, accelerating pirfenidone metabolism.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible; if rifampin is essential, monitor clinical response and lung function closely and consider alternatives.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Pirfenidone
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Pirfenidone with Rifampin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Pirfenidone and Rifampin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Rifampin induces several CYP enzymes and can lower pirfenidone exposure, risking loss of efficacy in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
How serious is the interaction between Pirfenidone and Rifampin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination where possible; if rifampin is essential, monitor clinical response and lung function closely and consider alternatives.
What other medicines interact with Pirfenidone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Pirfenidone with, for example, Carbamazepine, Ciprofloxacin, Fluvoxamine. The full list is on the Pirfenidone page.
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