Pirfenidone (Esbriet®) received EU approval for the treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a progressive lung disease, in February 2011. The UK launch is planned for mid-2012.

The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but pirfenidone has both anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory properties.

This review evaluates the evidence supporting pirfenidone use in patients with IPF and considers its potential place in therapy.