Pharmacological treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: an update

Abstract

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and almost invariably lethal disease that affects primarily older adults. After a decade of negative (or inconsistent) results, two recent clinical trials have demonstrated that slowing disease progression with medication is possible. An improved understanding of disease pathogenesis, epidemiology, and diagnostic criteria has been key to this success. Yet, this is only the beginning. It is hoped that continuous efforts by dedicated scientists and clinicians, patient organizations, health authorities, and pharmaceutical companies will soon lead to the development of more effective and better-tolerated treatment strategies for this devastating disease.