OA19816A - Pirfenidone Treatment For Patients With Atypical Liver Function. - Google Patents

Abstract

Methods are provided for administering pirfenidone to a patient that has exhibited abnormal biomarkers of liver function in response to pirfenidone administration. The methods include administering to a patient pirfenidone at doses lower than the full target dosage for a time period, followed by administering to the patient pirfenidone at the full target dosage. The methods also include administering pirfenidone at the full target dose with no reduction and administering permanently reduced doses of pirfenidone.

Description

PIRFENIDONE TREATMENT FOR PATIENTS WITH ATYPICAL LIVER FUNCTION

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS .

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 12/488,228, filed June . 19, 2009, now abandoned, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent No. 7,566,729, filed April 22, 2009, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61/113,107, filed November 10, 2008, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61/228,943, filed July 27, 2009, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Disclosure

[0002] The disclosure relates generally to methods for reducing adverse effects associated with the treatment of diseases and disorders. More particularly, the disclosure relates to methods for reducing abnormal liver function associated with 5-methyl-1-phenyl-2-(1H)-pyridone (“pirfenidone”) therapy.

Brief Description of Related Technology

[0003] U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,974,281, 4,042,699, and 4,052,509 generally relate to pirfenidone administration. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,310,562, 5,518,729, and 5,716,632, ail to Margolin and incorporated by reference herein, relate to pirfenidone administration.

[0004] Pulmonary fibrosis can be caused by a number of different conditions, including sarcoidosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, collagen vascular disease, and inhalant exposure. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a distinct entity, characterized by breathing difficulty, radiographie abnormalities, and progressive loss of lung function. It is invariably progressive, and carries a grave prognosis with a médian life expectancy of 2-3 years.

[0005] Pirfenidone has been administered to IPF patients. In a compassionate-use study, Raghu et al. (Treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis with a new antifibrotic agent, pirfenidone: results of a prospective, open-label phase II study.” Am J Respir Crit Care Med 159:1061-1069, 1999) reported administration of pirfenidone. No adverse events in hematology or blood chemistry were noted.

[0006] Nagai et al. conducted an uncontrolled, open-label study of pirfenidone in patients (“Open label compassionate use one year-treatment with pirfenidone to patients with chronic pulmonary fibrosis.” Internai Medicine 41:1118-1123, 2002). During treatment, no liver dysfunctions, hématologie abnormalities, or allergie or shock reactions were reported.

[0007] Moïses et al. “A double-blind, multicenter study comparing pirfenidone and prednisone for moderate-to-severe pulmonary fibrosis. Chest 124:116S, 2003 reported administration of pirfenidone. ·

[0008] Azuma et al. “Double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of pirfenidone in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.” Am J Respir Crit Gare Med 171:1040-1047, 2005) describes administration of pirfenidone to a maximum of 1800 mg/day of pirfenidone, and reports a protocol for stepwise réduction and rechallenge with drug after an adverse evént.

[0009] Abnormal liver function may manifest as abnormalities in levels of biomarkers of liver function, including alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, bilirubin, and/or alkaline phosphatase, and may be an indicator of drug-induced liver injury. See FDA Draft Guidance for Industry. Drug-induced Liver Injury: Prémarketing Clinical Evaluation, October 2007.

SUMMARY

[0010] One aspect of the invention provides methods for administering a therapeutically effective dose of pirfenidone to a patient that has exhibited abnormal biomarkers of liver function 15 after pirfenidone administration for the treatment of fibrosis, e.g. idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). In some embodiments, a patient is identified who exhibits a significantly abnormal level of one, two, three or more biomarkers of liver function, e.g. the level of a Grade 2 abnormality, after administration of an original full target dose of pirfenidone, e.g. about 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day. In such patients, the dose of pirfenidone is reduced or discontinued until levels of the 20 abnormal biomarkers approach or are within normal range, after which patients are administered increasing doses of pirfenidone, up to the original full target dose. Alternatively, the dose of pirfenidone is not reduced at ali, but liver biomarkers continue to be monitored. In another embodiment, after an optional temporary dose réduction or discontinuation, patients are administered pirfenidone at a permanently reduced dose of 1602 mg/day. As used herein, “original full target dose” means the therapeutically effective dose approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or a similar agency in a foreign country, optionally other than Japan. In some embodiments, the original full target dose is about 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 34 mg/kg/day (e.g. 33-35 mg/kg/day), or from 2200 to 2600 mg/day pirfenidone, or from 31 mg/kg/day to 37 mg/kg/day. The total daily dose is administered one, 30 two or three times per day.

[0011] Thus, the invention provides methods of administering pirfenidone to a patient at doses of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day after identifying that the patient has exhibited a liver function Grade 2 abnormality after pirfenidone administration. In some embodiments, the methods involve continuing the full target dose, e.g. of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day, without temporarily discontinuing or reducing the dose. The patient’s biomarkers of liver function may continue to be monitored. In some embodiments, the method involves (a) administering a dose lower than 2400 mg/day for a time period, e.g., one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, one month, six weeks, or two months, followed by (b) administering a dose of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day. In spécifie embodiments, the pirfenidone is temporarily discontinued before step (a).

[0012] In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality as follows: (a) administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone for about one week, or until the liver function biomarkers returnto Grade 0 or Grade 1, and (b) administering the original full target dose for at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years. Preferably, the total daily dose is administered three times per day, with food.

[0013] In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality as follows: (a) administering about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone for about one Week, or until the liver function biomarkers return to Grade 0 or Grade 1, (b) administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone for about one week, and (c) administering the original full target dose for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years. Preferably, the total daily dose is administered three times per day, with food.

[0014] In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality as follows: (a) discontinuing pirfenidone for about one week, or until the liver function biomarkers return to Grade 0 or Grade 1, (b) administering about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone for about one week, (c) administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone for about one week, and (d) administering the original full target dose for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years. Preferably, the total daily dose is administered three times per day, with food.

[0015] Alternatively, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality at a permanently reduced dose, e.g. 800 or 801 mg/day, or 1600 or 1602 mg/day. In some embodiments, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality as follows: administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years. In some embodiments, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality as follows: (a) administering about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone for about a week, or until biomarkers of liver function are within normal limits, and (b) administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone to the patient for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years.

[0016] In other embodiments, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality as follows: (a) discontinuing pirfenidone for about one week, or until the liver function biomarkers retum to Grade 0 or Grade 1, (b) administering about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone for about a week, or until biomarkers of liver function are within normal limits, and (c) administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone to the 10 patient for a time period ôf at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years. In still other embodiments, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality as follows: (a) discontinuing pirfenidone for about one week, or until the liver function biomarkers return to Grade 0 or Grade 1, and (b) 15 administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone to the patient for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years.

[0017] The invention also provides methods of administering pirfenidone to a patient at doses 20 of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day after identifying that the patient has exhibited a liver function

Grade 1 abnormality after pirfenidone administration. In some embodiments, the methods involve continuing the full target dose, e.g. of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day, without temporarily discontinuing or reducing the dose. The patients biomarkers of liver function may continue to be monitored. In some embodiments, the method involves (a) administering a dose lower than 25 2400 mg/day for a time period, e.g., one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, one month, six weeks, or two months, followed by (b) administering a dose of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day. In spécifie embodiments, the pirfenidone is temporarily discontinued before step (a).

[0018] In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: (a) administering about 1600 mg/day 30 or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone for a time period, optionally about one week, or until the liver function biomarkers return to Grade 0, and (b) administering the original full target dose for at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years. Preferably, the total daily dose is administered three times per day, with food.

[0019] In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: (a) administering about 800 mg/day or. 801 mg/day pirfenidone for a time period, optionally about one week, or until the liver function biomarkers return to Grade 0, (b) administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone for a time period, optionally about one week, and (c) administering the original full target dose for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, orfive years, 5 or seven years, or ten years. Preferably, the total daily dose is administered three times per day, with food.

[0020] In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: (a) discontinuing pirfenidone for a time period, optionally about one week, or until the liver function biomarkers return to Grade 0, (b) 10 administering about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone for a time period, optionally àbout one week, (c) administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone for a time period, optionally about one week, and (d) administering the original full target dose for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or 15 ten years. Preferably, the total daily dose is administered three times per day, with food.

[0021] Alternatively, pirfenidone is administered at a permanently reduced dose, e.g. 800 or 801 mg/day, or 1600 or 1602 mg/day. In some embodiments, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three 20 weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years. In some embodiments, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: (a) administering about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone for a time period, optionally about a week, or until biomarkers of liver function are within normal limits, and (b) 25 administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone to the patient for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, orfive years, or seven years, or ten years.

[0022] In other embodiments, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver 30 function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: (a) discontinuing pirfenidone for a time period, optionally about one week, or until the liver function biomarkers return to Grade 0, (b) administering about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone for about a week, or until biomarkers of liver function are within normal limits, and (c) administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone to the patient for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three 35 weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years. In still other embodiments, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: (a) discontinuing pirfenidone for a time period, optionally about one week, or until the liver function biomarkers return to Grade 0, and (b) administering about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone to the patient for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three 5 years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years.

[0023] In any of the embodiments described herein, any of the reduced doses of pirfenidone may be administered for a time period of 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, one week, about two weeks, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has retumed to within normal limits, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits.

[0024] In any of the embodiments described herein, the patient can hâve fibrotic lesional tissue. Such a patient is a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration. In one embodiment, the patient is suffering from pulmonary fibrosis, idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, autoimmune lung diseases, benign prostate hypertrophy, coronary or myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, cérébral infarction, myocardiac fibrosis, musculoskeletal fibrosis, post-surgical 15 adhesions, liver cirrhosis, rénal fibrotic disease, fibrotic vascular disease, scleroderma, Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome, neurofibromatosis, Alzheimeris disease, diabetic retinopathy, and/or skin lésions. In one embodiment, the patient is suffering from lymph node fibrosis associated with HIV. In one embodiment, the patient is suffering from pulmonary fibrosis, or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. In another embodiment, the patient is a person who would benefit 20 from pirfenidone administration, optionally with the proviso that the patient is not suffering from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

[0025] In some embodiments, the biomarker of liver function is alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, bilirubin, and/or alkaline phosphatase. Elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase has been observed in some patients receiving pirfenidone, without clinical liver 25 impairment, and thus elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase alone is not necessarily a sign of liver impairment. In any of the embodiments described herein, biomarkers of liver function can exclude gamma-glutamyl transferase. In another embodiment, the abnormal level of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, or alkaline phosphatase is greaterthan about 2.5-fold increased compared to the upper limit of normal (ULN). In a related embodiment, the abnormal 30 level of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, or alkaline phosphatase is greater than about 2.5- to about 5-fold increased compared to the upper limit of normal (ULN), i.e. a “liver function Grade 2 abnormality”. In some embodiments, the abnormal level of bilirubin is greater than about 1.5- to about 3-fold increased compared to the upper limit of normal (ULN), i.e., a “liver function Grade 2 abnormality”.

[0026] In some embodiments the abnormal biomarkers of liver function, e.g. elevated alanine transaminase and/or aspartate transaminase and/or elevated bilirubin, are accompanied by clinical signs of impaired liver function such asjaundice.

[0027] Further aspects and advantages will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from a review of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the examples. While the method is susceptible of embodiments in various forms, the description hereafter includes spécifie embodiments with the understanding that the disclosure is illustrative, and is 5 not intended to limit the invention to the spécifie embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The invention provides methods for administering a full therapeutically effective dose of pirfenidone to a patient that has exhibited abnormal levels of biomarkers of liver function after the patient has been treated with pirfenidone. Because liver function abnormalities can be 10 indicative of drug-induced liver injury (hepatotoxicity), it is important to détermine whether the abnormalities reflect liver injury or merely indicate limited toxicity that will résolve over time while continuing to take the drug. According to the présent invention, even patients that exhibit abnormal liver function may continue taking pirfenidone at the original full target dose, optionally after a short time period of discontinuing pirfenidone or taking the pirfenidone at reduced doses.

This administration regimen has the advantage of maximizing the time on the full target dose of drug and therefore the potential for a bénéficiai therapeutic effect.

[0029] The patient may be suffering from any disease for which pirfenidone therapy may be useful in ameliorating symptoms. Such a patient is a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration. These diseases include, but are not limited to: chronic obstructive pulmonary 20 disease (COPD), inflammatory pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), rheumatoid arthritis; rheumatoid spondylitis; osteoarthritis; goût, other arthritic conditions; sepsis; septic shock; endotoxic shock; gram-negative sepsis; toxic shock syndrome; myofacial pain syndrome (MPS); Shigellosis; asthma; adult respiratory distress syndrome; inflammatory bowel disease; Crohn's disease; psoriasis; eczema; ulcerative colitis; glomerular nephritis; scleroderma; chronic thyroiditis;

Grave's disease; Ormond's disease; autoimmune gastritis; myasthenia gravis; autoimmune hemolytic anémia; autoimmune neutropenia; thrombocytopenia; pancreatic fibrosis; chronic active hepatitis including hepatic fibrosis; acute and chronic rénal disease; rénal fibrosis, irritable bowel syndrome; pyresis; restenosis; cérébral malaria; stroke and ischémie injury; neural trauma; Alzheimer's disease; Huntington's disease; Parkinson's disease; acute and chronic pain; allergies, including allergie rhinitis and allergie conjunctivitis; cardiac hypertrophy, chronic heart failure; acute coronary syndrome; cachexia; malaria; leprosy; leishmaniasis; Lyme disease; Reiter's syndrome; acute synoviitis; muscle degeneration, bursitis; tendonitis;

tenosynoviitis; herniated, ruptured, or prolapsed intervertébral disk syndrome; osteopetrosis; thrombosis; silicosis; pulmonary sarcosis; bone résorption diseases, such as osteoporosis or 35 multiple myeloma-related bone disorders; cancer, including but not limited to metastatic breast carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, malignant melanoma, gastric cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer; graft-versus-host reaction; and auto-immune diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis, lupus and fibromyalgia; AIDS and other viral diseases such as Herpes Zoster, Herpes Simplex I or II, influenza virus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and cytomégalovirus; and diabètes mellitus. In addition, the methods of the embodiments can be used to treat proliférative disorders (including both benign and malignant hyperplasias), including acute myelogenous leukemia, chronic myelogenous leukemia, Kaposi's sarcoma, metastatic melanoma, multiple myeloma, breast cancer, including metastatic breast carcinoma; colorectal, carcinoma; malignant melanoma; gastric cancer; non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); bone métastasés, and the like; pain disorders including neuromuscular pain, headache, cancer pain, dental pain, and arthritis pain; angiogenic disorders including solid tumor angiogenesis, ocular neovascularization, and infantile hemangioma; conditions associated with the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase signaling pathways, including conditions associated with prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-2 (including edema, fever, analgesia, and pain); organ hypoxia; thrombin-induced platelet aggregation; protozoal diseases.

[0030] The methods of the invention optionally include identifying abnormal liver function in a patient receiving pirfenidone, and monitoring biomarkers of liver function in a patient receiving a reduced dose of pirfenidone. In any of the methods described herein, AST and/or ALT may be elevated, e.g. to a Grade 2 or Grade 3 level. In some embodiments, the élévation is to a Grade 1 level. Alternatively, AST and bilirubin may be elevated, or AST or ALP may be elevated, or AST and GGT may be elevated, or ALT and bilirubin may be elevated, or ALT and ALP may be elevated, or ALT and GGT may be elevated, or bilirubin and ALP may be elevated, or bilirubin and GGT may be elevated, e.g., to a Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3 level. Alternatively, three biomarkers of liver function may be elevated, e.g., ALT and AST and bilirubin, or ALT and AST and ALP, to a Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3 level. In any of the embodiments described herein, biomarkers of liver function can exclude gamma-glutamyl transferase.

[0031] In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality after pirfenidone administration as follows: (a) administering at least about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 23 mg/kg/day (e.g. 22-24 mg/kg/day), or from 1400-1800 mg/day pirfenidone, or from 20 mg/kg/day to 26 mg/kg/day, for a time period. In some embodiments, step (a) is followed by (b) administering the original full target dose. In other embodiments, the original full target dose is continued without a temporary réduction or discontinuation of the dose. In some embodiments, the time period of step (a) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has retumed to within normal limits, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has retumed to within normal limits. In some embodiments, step (b) is carried out for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years, or more. Optionally the method includes measuring one or more biomarkers of liver function during step (a) and/or step (b).

[0032] In some embodiments ofthe methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality as follows: (a) administering at least about 800 5 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 11 mg/kg/day (e.g. 10-12 mg/kg/day), or from 600.1000 mg/day, or from 700-900 mg/day, or from 8 mg/kg/day to 15 mg/kg/day, for a time period, (b) administering at least about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 23 mg/kg/day (e.g. 22-24 mg/kg/day), or from 1400-1800 mg/day pirfenidone, or from 20 mg/kg/day to 26 mg/kg/day, for a time period, and (c) administering the original full target dose. In some 10 embodiments, the time period of step (a) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1. In some embodiments, the time period of step (b) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one 15 week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1. In some embodiments, step (c) is carried out for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three 20 years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years, or more. Optionally the method includes measuring one or more biomarkers of liver function during step (a) and/or step (b) and/or step (c).

[0033] In some embodiments ofthe methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 2 abnormality as follows: (a) discontinuing pirfenidone for a 25 time period, (b) administering at least about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 11 mg/kg/day (e.g. 10-12 mg/kg/day), or from 600-1000 mg/day, or from 700-900 mg/day, or from 8 mg/kg/day to 15 mg/kg/day, for a time period, (c) administering at least about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 23 mg/kg/day (e.g. 22-24 mg/kg/day), or from 1400-1800 mg/day pirfenidone, or from 20 mg/kg/day to 26 mg/kg/day, for a time period, and (d) administering the original full target dose. In some embodiments, the time period of step (a) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, orto Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits, orto Grade 1. In some embodiments, the time period of step 35 (b) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, orto Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1. In some embodiments, the time period of step (c) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver 5 function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1. In some embodiments, step (d) is carried out for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years, or more. Optionally the method includes measuring one or more biomarkers of liver function during step (a) and/or step (b) and/or step (c) and/or 10 step (d).

[0034] In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: (a) administering at least about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 23 mg/kg/day (e.g. 22-24 mg/kg/day), or from 1400-1800 mg/day pirfenidone, or from 20 mg/kg/day to 26 mg/kg/day, for a time period, and (b) 15 administering the original full target dose. In some embodiments, the time period of step (a) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits. In some embodiments, step (b) is carried out for a time period of at least one 20 week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years, or more. Optionally the method includes measuring one or more biomarkers of liver function during step (a) and/or step (b).

[0035] In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient 25 exhibiting a liver function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: (a) administering at least about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 11 rhg/kg/day (e.g. 10-12 mg/kg/day), or from 6001000 mg/day, or from 700-900 mg/day, or from 8 mg/kg/day to 15 mg/kg/day, for a time period, (b) administering at least about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 23 mg/kg/day (e.g. 22-24 mg/kg/day), or from 1400-1800 mg/day pirfenidone, or from 20 mg/kg/day 30 to 26 mg/kg/day, for a time period, and (c) administering the original full target dose. In some embodiments, the time period of step (a) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1. In some 35 embodiments, the time period of step (b) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1. In some embodiments, step (c) is carried out for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years, or more. Optionally the method 5 includes measuring one or more biomarkers of liver function during step (a) and/or step (b) and/or step (c).

[0036] . In some embodiments of the methods, pirfenidone is administered to a patient exhibiting a liver function Grade 1 abnormality as follows: (a) discontinuing pirfenidone for a time period, (b) administering at least about 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 11 10 mg/kg/day (e.g. 10-12 mg/kg/day), or from 600-1000 mg/day, or from 700-900 mg/day, or from 8 mg/kg/day to 15 mg/kg/day, for a time period, (c) administering at least about 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone, or about 23 mg/kg/day (e.g. 22-24 mg/kg/day), or from 1400-1800 mg/day pirfenidone, or from 20 mg/kg/day to 26 mg/kg/day, for a time period, and (d) administering the original full target dose. In some embodiments, the time period of step (a) is 2 15 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, orto Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits, orto Grade 1. In some embodiments, the time period of step (b) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three 20 weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits, or to Grade 1. In some embodiments, the time period of step (c) is 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, about one week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, about 1 month, or until the level of at least one biomarker of liverfunction has returned to within normal limits, orto Grade 1, or until ail biomarkers or liver function has returned to within normal limits, orto Grade 1. In some embodiments, step (d) is carried out for a time period of at least one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks or a month, two months, or three months, or one year, or two years, or three years, or four years, or five years, or seven years, or ten years, or more. Optionally the method includes measuring one or more biomarkers of liver function during step (a) and/or step (b) and/or step (c) and/or step (d).

[0037] Pirfenidone can be provided in tablet or capsule forms or any other oral dosage form, and typically is formulated for oral administration. Exemplary capsule formulations are described in WO 2007/038315 (Int’l Appl. No. PCT/US2006/037057).

[0038] Pirfenidone therapy can be associated with adverse effects including photosensitivity rash, anorexia (decreased appetite), stomach discomfort, nausea, heartburn, drowsiness (somnolence), fatigue, upper respiratory tract infection, fever, positive urinary occult blood, élévation of C-reactive protein (CRP), decreased weight, headache, constipation, and malaise. Abnormal liver function also can occur as an adverse effect (AE) in patients receiving pirfenidone. Prior to receiving pirfenidone, the baseline liver function of the patient can be, and typically is, normal. Liver function can be assessed by various means known in the art, such as blood chemistry tests measuring biomarkers of liver function. Examples of biomarkers of liver function include, but are not limited to, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).

[0039] Alanine transaminase (ALT), also called sérum glutamic pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) or alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), catalyzes the transfer of an amino group from alanine to ü-ketoglutarate to produce pyruvate and glutamate. When the liver is damaged, levels of ALT in the blood can rise due to the leaking of ALT into the blood from damaged or necrosed hépatocytes.

[0040] Aspartate transaminase (AST) also called sérum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT or GOT) or aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), catalyzes the transfer of an amino group from aspartate to □-ketoglutarate to produce oxaloacetate and glutamate. AST can increase in response to liver damage. Elevated AST also can resuit from damage to other sources, including red blood cells, cardiac muscle, skeletal muscle, kidney tissue, and brain tissue. The ratio of AST to ALT can be used as a biomarker of liver damage.

[0041] Bilirubin is a catabolite of heme that is cleared from the body by the liver. Conjugation of bilirubin to glucuronic acid by hépatocytes produces direct bilirubin, a water-soluble product that is readily cleared from the body. Indirect bilirubin is unconjugated, and the sum of direct and indirect bilirubin constitutes total bilirubin. Elevated total bilirubin can be indicative of liver impairment.

[0042] Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) hydrolyzes phosphate groups from various molécules and is présent in the cells lining the biliary ducts of the liver. ALP levels in plasma can rise in response to liver damage, and are higher in growing children and elderly patients with Paget's disease. However, elevated ALP levels usually reflect biliary tree disease.

[0043] Adverse effect Grades for abnormal liver function are defined herein by the modified Common Toxicity Criteria (CTO) provided in Table 1. See the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v3.0 (CTCAE) published August 9, 2006 by the National Cancer Institute, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Table 1. Modified Common Toxicity Criteria

	Grade
Toxicity	0	1	2	3	4
ALT	WNL	>ULN-2.5 x ULN	>2.5-5 x ULN	>5-20 x ULN	>20xULN

AST	WNL	>ULN-2.5 x ULN	>2.5-5 x ULN	>5-20 x ULN	>20 x ULN
Bilirubin	WNL	>ULN-1.5x ULN	>1.5-3 x ULN	>3-10 x ULN	>10xULN
ALP	WNL	>ULN-2.5 x ULN	>2.5-5 x ULN	>5-20 x ULN	>20 x ULN
GGT	WNL	>ULN-2.5 x ULN	>2.5-5 x ULN	>5-20 x ULN	>20 x ULN

(WNL = within normal limits; ULN = upper limit of normal)

[0044] The ULN for various indicators of liver function dépends on the assay used, the patient population, and each laboratory’s normal range of values for the specified biomarker, but can readily be determined by the skilled practitioner. Exemplary values for normal ranges for a healthy adult population are set forth in Table 2 below. See Cecil Textbook of Medicine, pp.

2317-2341, W.B. Saunders & Co. (1985).

Table 2

ALT	8-20 U/L
AST	8-20 U/L
Bilirubin	0.2-1.0 mg/dL 3.4-17.1 pmol/L
ALP	20-70 U/L
GGT	Men: 9-50 U/L Women: 8-40 U/L

[0045] Grade 0 levels are characterized by biomarker evels within normal limits (WNL). “Normal liver function, as used herein, refers to Grade 0 adverse effects. “Abnormal liver 10 function, as used herein, refers to Grade 1 and above adverse effects.

[0046] “Grade 1 liver function abnormalities” include élévations in ALT, AST, ALP, or GGT greater than the ULN and less than or equal to 2.5-times the ULN. Grade 1 liver function abnormalities also include élévations of bilirubin levels greater than the ULN and less than or equal to 1.5-times the ULN.

[0047] Grade 2 liver function abnormalities include élévations in alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), or gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) greater than 2.5-times and less than or equal to 5-times the upper limit of normal (ULN). Grade 2 liver function abnormalities also include élévations of bilirubin levels greater than 1.5-times and less than or equal to 3-times the ULN.

[0048] “Grade 3 liver function abnormalities” include élévations în ALT, AST, ALP, or GGT greater than 5-times and less than or equal to 20-times the ULN. Grade 3 liver function abnormalities also include élévations of bilirubin levels greater than 3-times and less than or equal to 10-times the ULN.

[0049] “Grade 4 liver function abnormalities” include élévations in ALT, AST, ALP, or GGT greater than 20-times the ULN. Grade 4 liver function abnormalities also include élévations of bilirubin levels greater than 10 the ULN.

[0050] The présent disclosure provides methods for treating a patient having idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and receiving a full target dose of pirfenidone, wherein the full target dose is 10 2400 or 2403 mg pirfenidone per day. In accordance with the methods, a patient with abnormal liver function is administered a second dose of pirfenidone, wherein the second dose is 1600 or 1602 mg pirfenidone per day until liver function is within normal limits, followed by administering the patient the full target dose of 2400 or 2403 mg pirfenidone per day.

[0051] The présent disclosure also provides methods for treatment of patients that exhibit

Grade 1 abnormality in one or more biomarkers of liver function after pirfenidone administration. The method includes administering to the patient pirfenidone at doses of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day or administering to the patient pirfenidone at doses of 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day. Preferably, the patient may be receiving pirfenidone for treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Alternatively, the patient may be suffering from a condition for which pirfenidone administration may be bénéficiai. Optionally, patients may receive reduced doses or discontinue treatment for a time period, and then résumé administration of pirfenidone.

[0052] The methods disclosed herein are contemplated to include embodiments including any combination of one or more of the additional optional éléments, features, and steps further described herein (including those described in the examples), unless stated otherwise.

[0053] Ranges may be expressed herein as from about or approximately one particular value and/or to about or approximately another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antécédent about, it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

[0054] It will be appreciated that the invention provides pirfenidone as a médicament wherein the administration pattern of the médicament comprises administering according to any of the treatment methods described herein.

[0055] It will be appreciated that the invention provides pirfenidone for use in treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration according to any of the treatment régimes as described above with respect to the methods of the invention for administering pirfenidone to a patient for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or to a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration. Pirfenidone is packaged and presented for use in a treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration according to such treatment régimes. Pirfenidone is administered to the patient in accordance with the treatment régimes as described above. The patient is one who has exhibited abnormal biomarkers of liver function after pirfenidone administration as is described above with respect to the methods of the invention for administering pirfenidone to a patient for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or to a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration.

[0056] In particular, the invention includes pirfenidone for use in treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration, said patient having exhibited a Grade 1 or Grade 2 abnormality in one or more biomarkers of liver function after pirfenidone administration, wherein said patient is administered pirfenidone at doses of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day. Optionally, prior to administration of pirfenidone at doses of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day, said patient is administered pirfenidone at doses lower than 2400 mg/day for a time period.

[0057] It will be appreciated that the invention provides the use of pirfenidone in the manufacture of a médicament for treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration according to any of the treatment régimes as described above with respect to any of the methods. The médicaments manufactured according to this aspect of the invention are for use in treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration in accordance with such treatment régimes. The médicament so manufactured is administered to the patient in accordance with the treatment régimes as described above. The patient is one who has exhibited abnormal biomarkers of liver function after pirfenidone administration as is described above with respect to the methods of the invention for administering pirfenidone to a patient for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration.

[0058] In particular, the invention includes the use of pirfenidone in the manufacture of a médicament for treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration, said patient having exhibited a Grade 1 or Grade 2 abnormality in one or more biomarkers of liver function after pirfenidone administration, wherein said patient is administered pirfenidone at doses of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day. Optionally, prior to administration of pirfenidone at doses of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day, said patient is administered pirfenidone at doses lower than 2400 mg/day for a time period.

[0059] In respect of the aspects of the invention relating to pirfenidone for use in treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and to use of pirfenidone in the manufacture of a médicament for treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the preferences expressed with respect to the preferred embodiments of the aspect of the invention relating to a method for administering pirfenidone to treat a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis apply in the same way. Similarly, the examples relate to pirfenidone for use in treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and to use of pirfenidone in the manufacture of a médicament for treating a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, as well as to a method for administering pirfenidone to a patient for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

EXAMPLES

[0060] The following examples are provided for illustration and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Example 1

Pirfenidone Dosing Regimen

[0061] Patients begin pirfenidone treatment by receiving escalating doses of pirfenidone over a period of 15 days until the full maintenance dose is reached. Specifically, from days 1 to 7, patients are administered one capsule of 267 mg pirfenidone three times per day. During days 8 to 14, patients receive two capsules of 267 mg pirfenidone three times per day. From day 15 onward, patients are treated with three capsules of 267 mg pirfenidone three times per day. Pirfenidone is administered orally, and each dose should be taken with food. If the patient is unable to eat, then the pirfenidone dose should be taken with milk or juice (excluding grapefruit juice).

[0062] Pirfenidone is known to cause photosensitivity reactions; therefore, throughout the treatment period, patients should use sun block that protects against at least UV-A with a sun protective factor (SPF) of 50. In addition, patients should wear appropriate clothing to minimize sun exposure, and if possible, avoid other médications known to cause photosensitivity reactions.

[0063] Once the full maintenance dose is reached, pirfenidone is administered orally to patients three times per day to provide a daily dose of 2403 mg pirfenidone. Each of the three doses of 801 mg pirfenidone includes three capsules of 267 mg pirfenidone each. The contents of the pirfenidone 267 mg capsules are pirfenidone (82.15%); croscarmellose sodium (8.15%); microcrystalline cellulose (7.39%); povidine, USP, EP (1.85%); and magnésium stéarate (0.46%).

[0064] Patients are treated with pirfenidone for up to 72 weeks. Some patients are treated longer than 72 weeks. At weeks 2, 4, 6, 12, and every 12 weeks (± 2 weeks) thereafter during the treatment period, with the exception of week 72 and the treatment completion visit, patients are examined and historiés are collected as detailed in the steps below.

[0065] 1. Patient history is collected to include review of adverse effects (AEs) and severe adverse effects (SAEs), use of concomitant médications, use of oxygen, hospitalizations, IPF exacerbations or acute respiratory decompensation, and dosing.

[0066] 2. Patients receive a physical examination, and vital signs and weight are measured.

[0067] 3. Pulmonary function is assessed by spirometry before and after administration of bronchodilators. Forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) are measured.

[0068] 4. Clinical laboratory tests are performed, including hematology, sérum chemistries, pregnancy tests for women of childbearing capacity, and urinalysis with microscopie examination.

[0069] 5. Questionnaires are administered, including the University of California at San Diego Shortness of Breath Questionnaire (UCSD SOBQ), St. George’s Hospital Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHO QOL) questionnaire. After week 72, only the UCSD SOBQ and SGRQ are obtained at the scheduled 12 week visits.

[0070] Additionally, every 24 weeks starting with Week 12 (for example, weeks 12, 36, and 60), electrocardiogram (ECG) measûrements are obtained. ECG data is obtained before administering bronchodilators for the pulmonary function test (PFT) measûrements. At the week 36 visit, pharmacokinetic (PK) data is obtained for selected patients.

[0071] If a patient expériences a Grade 1 or greater élévation in alànine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), or bilirubin at baseline or after the start of pirfenidone dosing up to and including week 6, an additional safety chemistry blood test must be obtained between weeks 8 and 10.

Example 2

Modification of Pirfenidone Dosing Regimen in Response to Grade 2 Liver Function Test (LFT) Elévations

[0072] Patients are treated with pirfenidone in accordance with Example 1. During the course of pirfenidone treatment, patients exhibiting abnormal liver function test results are candidates for dose modification. As described in Example 1, sérum chemistry tests are performed at scheduled intervals during the treatment period to monitor various parameters, including biomarkers of liver function such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).

[0073] If a patient expériences a Grade 2 increase in any one of AST, ALT or bilirubin, the pirfenidone dose is reduced to one capsule of 267 mg pirfenidone three times per day. While receiving the reduced pirfenidone dose, the patient undergoes additional monitoring of AST, ALT and bilirubin. The reduced pirfenidone dose is continued at least until AST, ALT and bilirubin are ail Grade 1 or within normal limits (Grade 0). The reduced pirfenidone dose can be administered for a period of time after AST, ALT and bilirubin hâve reached Grade 1 or Grade 0.

[0074] At any time after AST, ALT and bilirubin hâve resolved to Grade 0 or Grade 1, the pirfenidone dose can be re-escalated in a manner consistent with the initial dose escalation, up to a dose of 6 capsules per day. After AST, ALT and bilirubin hâve resolved to Grade 0 or Grade 1, the pirfenidone dose also can be re-escalated in a manner consistent with the initial dose escalation, up to the maximum of 9 capsules per day.

[0075] Sérum chemistry tests are optionally performed at scheduled intervals during the escalation period, e.g. weekly or every 2 weeks, or every 3 weeks, or every month to monitor various parameters, including biomarkers of liver function such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).

Example 3

Temporary Discontinuation of Pirfenidone Dosing in Response to Grade 2 Liver Function Test (LFT) Elévations

[0076] Patients are treated with pirfenidone in accordance with Example 1. During the course of pirfenidone treatment, patients exhibiting abnormal liver function test results are candidates for dose modification. As described in Example 1, sérum chemistry tests are performed at scheduled intervals during the treatment period to monitor various parameters, including biomarkers of liver function such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).

[0077] If a patient expériences a Grade 2 increase in any one of AST, ALT or bilirubin, the pirfenidone dose is discôntinued. Following discontinuation ofthe pirfenidone dose, the patient undergoes additional monitoring of AST, ALT and bilirubin. Pirfenidone dosing is discôntinued at least until AST, ALT and bilirubin are ail Grade 1 or within normal limits (Grade 0). The pirfenidone dose can be discôntinued fora period of time after AST, ALT and bilirubin hâve reached Grade 1 or Grade 0.

[0078] After AST, ALT and bilirubin hâve resolved to Grade 0 or Grade 1, if the patient has been off drug for 14 days or more, the pirfenidone dose is re-escalated in a manner consistent with the initial dose escalation, up to a dose of 6 or 9 capsules per day, i.e. 1602 mg/day or

2403 mg/day. Alternatively, after AST, ALT and bilirubin hâve resolved to Grade 0 or Grade 1, the pirfenidone dose is re-instituted at a dose of 6 capsules per day, i.e. 1602 mg/day, and reescalated after 1 week to the maximum of 9 capsules per day.

[0079] Sérum chemistry tests are optionally performed at scheduled intervals during the escalation period, e.g. weekly, or every 2 weeks, or every month, to monitor various parameters, including biomarkers of liver function such as alanine transaminase (ALT), . aspartate transaminase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).

Example 4

Modification of Pirfenidone Dosing Regimen to 2 Capsules Three Times per Day in Response to Grade 2 Liver Function Test (LFT) Elévations .

[0080] Patients are treated with pirfenidone in accordance with Example 1. During the course of pirfenidone treatment, patients exhibiting abnormal liver function test results are candidates for dose modification. As described in Example 1, sérum chemistry tests are 15 performed at scheduled intervals during the treatment period to monitor various parameters, including biomarkers of liver function such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).

[0081] If a patient expériences a Grade 2 increase in any one of AST, ALT or bilirubin, the 20 pirfenidone dose is reduced to two capsules of 267 mg pirfenidone three times per day, i.e.

1602 mg/day. While receiving the reduced pirfenidone dose, the patient undergoes additional monitoring of AST, ALT and bilirubin. The reduced pirfenidone dose is continued at least until AST, ALT and bilirubin are ail Grade 1 or within normal limits (Grade 0). The reduced pirfenidone dose can be administered for a period of time after AST, ALT and bilirubin hâve 25 reached Grade 1 or Grade 0.

[0082] After 1 week of treatment at 1602 mg/day, if AST, ALT and bilirubin hâve resolved to Grade 0 or Grade 1, the pirfenidone dose can be re-escalated to the maximum of 9 capsules per day, i.e. 2403 mg.

Example 5

No Modification of Pirfenidone Dosing Régime in Response to a Grade 1 or Grade 2 Liver Function Test (LFT) Elévations

[0083] Patients were treated with pirfenidone in accordance with Example 1. During the course of pirfenidone treatment, some patients exhibited abnormal liver function test results. As described in Example 1,.sérum chemistry tests were performed at scheduled intervals during the treatment period to monitor various parameters, including biomarkers of liver function such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphate (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).

[0084] If a patient exhibited a Grade 1 or Grade 2 increase in any one of AST, ALT, or bilirubin, the pirfenidone dose was not reduced for some patients. The patient continued to receive the full target dose of 2403 mg/day. While receiving the full target dose, the patient was monitored for AST, ALT, and bilirubin levels.

Example 6

Incidence of Liver Function Abnormality and Dosing Regimen Response

[0085] Grade 1 Abnormalities in Liver Function • '

[0086] In a study of 345 patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis receiving pirfenidone three times per day for a total daily dose of 2403 mg/day, 49 patients without a baseline liver function abnormality exhibited a Grade 1 élévation in AST or ALT levels after pirfenidone administration. Of the 49 patients, three patients with a Grade 1 liver function test élévation had a treatment emergent adverse event of increased AST or ALT. In one patient, study drug dose was reduced to 1602 mg/day for the remainder of study participation (from Day 51 to Day 602), and the Grade 1 AST or ALT abnormality returned to Grade 0. For the second patient, study drug dose was reduced to 1602 mg/day and then increased to 2403 mg/day for remainder of study participation, and ALT returned to Grade 0. The third patient had study drug dose reduced to

801 mg/day, ultimately completing study at 1602 mg/day, at which time ALT returned to Grade

0. The remaining patients (46 patients) received no dose modification.

[0087] Grade 2 Abnormalities in Liver Function

[0088] Fifteen patients developed a Grade 2 liver function test abnormality in AST and/or ALT levels after pirfenidone administration of 2403 mg/day. Ofthe fifteen patients, 12 had reported treatment emergent adverse events of increased AST or ALT or hepatitis. The liver function test élévations for the remaining three patients were not documented as an adverse event (discussed below).

[0089] Of the twelve patients, two patients received continued administration of pirfenidone at the full daily dose of 2403 mg/day. The liver function test of one patient resolved to a Grade 0. 30 The other patient had a history of steatosis and a Grade 1 abnormality prior to pirfenidone treatment and underwent a dose réduction for unrelated reasons (rash and diarrhea), not for abnormal liver function tests, and ended the study with a Grade 1 élévation.

[0090] Two patients had a temporary dose réduction or a temporary discontinuation of pirfenidone, and were rechallenged and escalated back to full dose. They completed the study 35 at the full dose of 2403 mg/day with normal liver enzymes.

[0091] Seven patients underwent a permanent dose réduction of pirfenidone, in some cases after a temporary discontinuation of drug; by completion of the study, 3 patients were receiving 801 mg/day and 4 patients were receiving 1602 mg/day. With the exception of one patient, rechailenge with a higher dose was not attempted with these patients. The patient that was rechallenged received the full dose of 2403 mg/day, but the dose was later reduced due to a récurrence of Grade 2 élévation in ALT levels. AH seven patients completed the study with resolution of transaminases, except for one patient that had a Grade 1 élévation at study completion.

[0092] One patient discontinued treatment due to abnormal liver function tests in AST and/or ALT levels. The dose for this patient was initially decreased to 1602 mg/day, then discontinued, and then resumed at 1602 mg/day. For this patient, however, treatment was permanently discontinued because a Grade 2 élévation of AST coincided with a Grade 3 ALT élévation in liver function tests.

[0093] Of the three patients whose liver function test élévations were not documented as an adverse event, one had Grade 1 AST and ALT élévation at baseline, and experienced a Grade 1 élévation of AST at the last documented assessment. This patient received no dose modification after a Grade 2 élévation in AST and/or ALT levels. A second patient with a Grade 2 transaminase élévation had treatment temporarily discontinued for acute cérébral artery occlusion. Transaminase levels returned to normal once the dose was escalated back to 2403 mg/day, and the patient completed the study on full dose with normal transaminases. The third patient had no liver function test abnormalities while on treatment until Day 422, then the patient experienced a Grade 2 AST and Grade 1 ALT élévation with respiratory failure due to IPF. Study drug was discontinued the same day for respiratory failure. The patient was hospitalized on Day 434 and died on Day 439 due to respiratory failure.

[0094] Grade 3 Abnormalities in Liver Function

[0095] Four patients developed Grade 3 liver function abnormality in AST and/or ALT levels after pirfenidone administration, ail of who had a treatment emergent adverse event of either increased AST and/or ALT. Two of the four patients discontinued study drug for elevated liver function tests. In both instances, the abnormalities had not resolved, with Grade 2 and Grade 3 abnormalities last documented. The two other patients had Grade 1 abnormalities at screening and/or baseline. One patient discontinued for lung transplant at which time the last documented values showed a Grade 1 abnormality. The other patient interrupted study drug (investigator decision), and subsequently discontinued study drug (sponsor decision). The AST and ALT élévations had normalized at the last documented value.

[0096] The foregoing description is given for clearness of understanding only, and no unnecessary limitations should be understood therefrom, as modifications within the scope of the invention may be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art. Although methods hâve been described with reference to particular embodiments, a person of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that other ways of performing the acts associated with the methods may be used.

[0097] AH patents, publications and references cited herein are hereby fully incorporated by reference. In case of conflict between the présent disclosure and incorporated patents, publications and references, the présent disclosure should control.

Claims (13)

1. What is claimed is:

   1. Pirfenidone for use in treating a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration, said patient having exhibited a Grade 2 abnormality in one or both of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), after pirfenidone administration, wherein (a) said patient is administered pirfenidone at doses ofat least 1600 mg/day.
2. 2. Use of pirfenidone in the manufacture of a médicament for treating a patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration, said patient having exhibited a Grade 2 abnormality in one or both of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), after pirfenidone administration, wherein (a) said patient is administered pirfenidone at doses of at least 1600 mg/day.
3. 3. The pirfenidone or use according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein (a) said patient is administered pirfenidone at doses of 2200 to 2600 mg/day.
4. 4. The pirfenidone or use according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein (a) said patient is administered pirfenidone at a dose of 2400 mg/day or 2403 mg/day.
5. 5. The pirfenidone or use according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, prior to step (a), said patient is administered pirfenidone at doses lower than 1600 mg/day for a time period.
6. 6. The pirfenidone or use according to claim 4, wherein, prior to step (a), said patient is administered pirfenidone at doses lower than 2400 mg/day for a time period.
7. 7. The pirfenidone or use according to any of claims 1-6, wherein, prior to step (a), pirfenidone administration to the patient is discontinued for a time period, optionally about one week, or until the biomarkers of liver function are within normal limits.
8. 8. The pirfenidone or use according to any of claims 1-6, wherein, prior to step (a), pirfenidone administration to the patient is discontinued for a time period, optionally about one week, or until biomarkers of liver function are within normal limits, 800 mg/day or 801 mg/day pirfenidone is administered to the patient for a first time period, optionally one week, or until biomarkers of liver function are within normal limits, and optionally 1600 mg/day or 1602 mg/day pirfenidone is administered to the patient for a second time period that follows the first time period, optionally one week, or until biomarkers of liver function are within normal limits.
9. 9. The pirfenidone or use according to any of claims 1-7, wherein, prior to step (a), 600-1000 mg/day pirfenidone is administered to the patient for a time period, optionally about one week, or until biomarkers of liver function are within normal limits.
10. 10. The pirfenidone or use according to any of claims 1-9, wherein the pirfenidone is administered three times per day with food.
11. 11. The pirfenidone or use according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration suffers from a fibrosis condition.
12. 12. The pirfenidone or use according to any of claims 1-11, wherein the patient who would benefit from pirfenidone administration suffers from a condition selected from the group consisting of pulmonary fibrosis, idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, autoimmune lung diseases, benign prostate hypertrophy, coronary or myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, cérébral infarction, myocardiac fibrosis, musculoskeletal fibrosis, post-surgical adhesions, liver cirrhosis, rénal fibrotic disease, fibrotic vascular disease, scleroderma, Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome, neurofibromatosis, Alzheimer's disease, diabetic retinopathy, skin lésions, lymph node fibrosis associated with HIV, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), inflammatory pulmonary fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatoid spondylitis, osteoarthritis, goût, sepsis, septic shock, endotoxic shock, gram-negative sepsis, toxic shock syndrome, myofacial pain syndrome (MPS), Shigellosis, asthma, adult respiratory distress syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, eczema, ulcerative colitis, glomerular nephritis, chronic thyroiditis, Grave's disease, Ormond's disease, autoimmune gastritis, myasthenia gravis, autoimmune hemolytic anémia, autoimmune neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, pancreatic fibrosis, chronic active hepatitis, acute and chronic rénal disease, rénal fibrosis, irritable bowel syndrome, pyresis, restenosis, cérébral malaria, stroke and ischémie injury, neural trauma, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, acute and chronic pain, allergies, cardiac hypertrophy, chronic heart failure, acute coronary syndrome, cachexia, malaria, leprosy, leishmaniasis, Lyme disease, Reiter's syndrome, acute synoviitis, muscle degeneration, bursitis, tendonitis, tenosynoviitis, herniated, ruptured, or prolapsed intervertébral disk syndrome, osteopetrosis, thrombosis, silicosis, pulmonary sarcosis, bone résorption diseases, cancer, graft-versus-host reaction, auto-immune diseases, AIDS, Herpes Zoster, Herpes Simplex I or II, influenza virus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), cytomégalovirus, and diabètes mellitus.
13. 13. The pirfenidone or use according to any preceding claim, wherein the patient has exhibited an abnormal level of alanine transaminase and/or aspartate transaminase, after pirfenidone administration, and wherein the abnormal level is greater than 2.5-times and less than or equal to 5times the upper limit of normal.