Pirfenidone

Antifibrotic agent. Prevents lung fibrosis in bleomycin-induced animal models.1 Down-regulates bleomycin-induced overexpression of lung procollagen I and III genes.2 Up-regulates RGS2 (Regulator of G-protein Signaling 2) which represents a new mechanism of pirfenidone action.3 Inhibits fibroblast proliferation.4 Suppresses TNFα production at the translational level.5 Scavenges hydroxyl radicals and inhibits lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner.6 Recently approved therapeutic agent for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.7 Orally active.