[Scott Felland]

In response to your inquiry about OFEV, Charlene, I would like to mention a couple of things. In March, 2015, my pulmonologist chose to prescribe Esbriet for my IPF for a couple of reasons. Both drugs had only been recently approved in October of 2014, and the UW Hosptital had participated in the trial leading to the approval of Esbriet, so he was more familiar with it. Also, he felt the side effects were less than with OFEV. Both drugs have similar outcomes for the patient, yet approach the disease differently. For those that have concerns with taking 3 capsules 3x daily, Esbriet also comes in a somewhat large tablet form that is taken 1 tablet, 3x daily. I have found that both the caps and the tablet HAVE to taken with food to avoid nausea, but the tablet requires that I have consumed some of the meal already  to avoid nausea.

Now, leading to my question. Since, as of late, my PFTs have been declining a little more rapidly than expected on Esbriet, I have asked my pulmonologist about the possibility of combing both the Esbriet and the OFEV since they do both approach the disease in different ways. There has been a study to determine the compatibility and , as expected, both had similar side effects as they would if taken separately. At first apprehensive, my doctor is willing to try that, however, being a new approach to treatment, the dosages are unknown and, quite importantly, the insurance coverage is doubtful for both. I am presently receiving Esbriet for free from the manufacturer, Genetech, but next year, I fear that I will become ineligible due to income. UW Health has arranged the grant for me.

Now, my question. Is anyone in the forum happen to be taking a combination of the two drugs?