In order for medications to be successful, we often have to overcome substantial side effects.  As we weigh the benefits of a medication against its side effects, we must consider the seriousness of the underlying disease and our options for alternative treatments.  Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease that in the absence of treatment progresses to respiratory … [Read more...]

Many medications are accompanied by side effects.  These side effects can range from annoying to life-threatening.  When the FDA considers approving a new medication, there is a careful evaluation of the benefits of the new medication weighed against the side effects.  For life threatening diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis, the FDA is willing to accept substantial side … [Read more...]

Unfortunately, having idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis does not prevent you from developing yet another serious lung problem.  Data from several studies have shown that patients with IPF are at higher (5-7 times greater) risk for lung cancer.  This risk is independent of smoking exposure.  We don’t have a clear explanation for this observation but it does inform our care of IPF … [Read more...]

We received many great comments and topic suggestions recently and I will address a selection below. Several readers asked about whether there are supplements or vitamins that have a role in slowing the progression of IPF. If you listen to the radio, watch television or frankly are alive and have either functioning eyes or ears then you have no doubt heard the sales pitch … [Read more...]

The American Thoracic Society recently published updated guidelines for IPF.  These new guidelines reflect the recent advances in treatment.  We provide the link for those interested in the unabridged document.  Below I summarize the recommendations. New and Revised Recommendations Against Use 1.     Anticoagulation:  strong recommendation against use for treatment of … [Read more...]