This is a Phase 3, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled, three-arm, safety and efficacy study of pirfenidone in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Approximately 400 patients at approximately 70 centers will be randomly assigned (2:2:1) to receive either 2403 milligrams (mg) of pirfenidone, placebo equivalent, or 1197 mg of pirfenidone administered in divided doses three times per day (TID) with food. Patients will be randomized by geographic region.~Patients will receive blinded study treatment from the time of randomization until the last patient randomized has been treated for 72 weeks. A Data Monitoring Committee (DMC) will periodically review safety and efficacy data to ensure patient safety.~After week 72, patients who meet the Progression of Disease (POD) definition, which is a ≥ 10% absolute decrease in percent predicted FVC or a ≥ 15% absolute decrease in percent predicted carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLco), will be eligible to receive permitted IPF therapies in addition to their blinded study drug. Permitted IPF therapies include corticosteroids, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide and N-acetyl-cysteine (with restrictions).
The objectives of this study are to assess the safety and efficacy of treatment with pirfenidone 2403 milligrams per day (mg/d) compared with placebo in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), to assess the safety and efficacy of treatment with pirfenidone 1197 mg/d in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and to characterize the pharmacokinetic disposition of pirfenidone in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.