ISSN : 2663-2187

A Randomized Controlled Trial on the Role of Antifibrotic Therapy in Progressive Pulmonary Fibrosis

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Iqra Anwar, Hafiz Kamal Din, Tahir Nazeer, Muhammad Rashid, Sadaf Bukhari, Syed Sajjad Raza Kazmi, Farah Naz Tahir
» doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.16.2024.4505-4513

Abstract

A randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of antifibrotic therapy in patients with progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF). Progressive pulmonary fibrosis is a debilitating condition characterized by relentless fibrosis despite conventional therapy. The objective was to assess whether antifibrotic agents significantly alter the disease trajectory in terms of pulmonary function, exercise tolerance, and quality of life. A total of 240 patients were randomized into two groups: one receiving antifibrotic therapy and the other receiving standard supportive care. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs), six-minute walk distance (6MWD), and quality of life scores were assessed over 12 months. The antifibrotic group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in forced vital capacity (FVC) decline compared to the control group (mean difference: 110 mL, p<0.001). Improvements were also noted in 6MWD (increase of 35 meters, p=0.004) and dyspnea scores (p=0.002). This study highlights the potential of antifibrotic therapy in altering the natural history of PPF and underscores its role in preserving lung function. The findings support integrating antifibrotic therapy into standard treatment protocols for PPF to mitigate disease progression.

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