The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new medication called nintedanib. It is a capsule taken by mouth to treat two specific types of serious lung diseases that cause scarring, known as fibrosis. These conditions are called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and chronic fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) with a progressive phenotype. The scarring makes the lungs stiff and hard to breathe.
This drug is specifically for adults who have been diagnosed with one of these progressive, scarring lung conditions. The approval means that doctors now have another treatment option to offer patients to help slow down the progression of lung scarring. It is important to understand that this drug is not a cure, but it is a tool to help manage these diseases.
As with any medication, there are important considerations. The drug can affect the liver, so doctors will perform blood tests before and during treatment. The dose may need to be adjusted for some patients, and it is not recommended for people with moderate or severe liver problems. Common side effects can include diarrhea and nausea.
The most important step for anyone with these lung conditions is to talk with their own doctor. A healthcare provider can explain if this new treatment is a suitable option based on an individual's specific health situation, other medications, and overall treatment goals.