Diagnostic Methods And Treatments For Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Medications

While no medications can cure or slow the progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, there are medicines that may help improve a patient's quality of life. Prednisone is a steroid that reduces inflammation in the lungs. It may be administered orally, via injection, or into a vein. Due to the potential for serious side effects, this medicine is usually only given short-term during periods of significant symptoms. When taking prednisone, doctors often recommend vitamin D and calcium supplements since this medication can cause bone loss. Azathioprine, an oral daily medication, suppresses the patient's immune system and is usually only given for up to six months at a time due to the potential for serious side effects. N-acetylcysteine, an antioxidant patients take orally several times a day, may help prevent lung damage. It is usually combined with azathioprine and prednisone.

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