Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a serious lung disease for which there is no known cause or cure. Scarring or fibrosis of the lungs progresses and eventually interferes with a person's ability to breathe. IPF progresses differently in each patient. For some, the scarring occurs quickly, while in others it happens over a longer period of time. Symptoms also vary from moderate to severe and may stay the same for a while. Because of the differences from patient to patient, it is important to discuss your disease with your doctor and tell your doctor if you feel your symptoms worsening or changing in any way.

It is estimated that there are approximately 83,000 people in the United States and more than 60,000 people in Europe with IPF, with approximately 30,000 new cases diagnosed every year. IPF usually affects people between the ages of 40 and 70 years. IPF is more common in men than women.

There are currently no drugs approved by the FDA for the treatment of IPF. Ongoing research is aimed at exploring new treatment options for patients suffering from IPF. The health information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a healthcare provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of patients. Please click here for additional patient resources.

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1. Weycker D, Oster G, Edelsberg J, Bradford WZ, Raghu G. Prevalence, incidence, and economic costs of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Paper presented at CHEST; November 2-7, 2002, San Diego, California.