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Managing Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Naturally: Best Remedies to Try

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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Laser Therapy

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Posted by Andrew Hall Dc (Sonora, Ca) on 08/10/2016
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I was diagnosed with IPF 2 1/2 years ago. My very experienced pulmonologist said I would be lucky to make it 5 years. I am a chiropractor and the pulmonologist said it probably started from 40 yrs exposure to xray developing chemical. I'm not convinced of that, but I know I have IPF. I am in a unique position as that I utilize a Class IV laser in my office. I began using it on myself as soon as I was diagnosed. I returned to the pulmonologist a month ago after my third CT scan. There has been no additional fibrous tissue in the lungs in the 2 12 years since starting laser therapy, and my pulmonary function tests have actually improved each time, having had 3 total. My doctor said he has never seen this before in his entire career, where the IPF became static and function improved. I refused prednisone, Esbriet, etc. though I do use an inhaler on occasion.

The laser reduces inflammation with a photochemical process. When treating musculoskeletal problems it heals tissue faster and with less scar tissue. It could be that it is keeping more scarring from taking place, but it is not actually removing it. I still have a cough, but much less frequent and severe. I'm still working and playing hard though looking at retirement fairly soon. I'm 64. The dose with the laser I use is 10 watts, 4 minutes on the front of the chest and 4 on the back for a total of 4800 joules. I started with twice a week for the first month and then went to one treatment per week. I know this is working for me and I feel like I got my future back. If I don't get worse than I am, I can live very healthy for a very long time. My goal is 20 more years. If this post helps anyone else with this horrible disease I will be thrilled. It's wonderful to have hope. Dr Hall

Replied by Janet
(In)
08/12/2016

Thank you Dr. Hall... how exciting. I love this post. Great information. Janet

Replied by Timh
(Ky)
08/12/2016
2042 posts

With a number of cases of Pulmonary Fibrosis is the presence of mycoplasma infection, which has been my nemesis for many yrs. Just suggesting the possibility as mycoplasma prevents lung tissue regeneration. My theory is the cholesterol needed for repair is saturated or surrounded by the myco as it's a favorite fuel source. In your case, the laser may be killing mycoplasma. Certainly worth investigating.

I have recently had very good results killing the myco with first Magnet therapy, then Zapping, then Nebulized Colloidal Silver.

Replied by Fred
(Mauritius)
09/28/2016

Hi Andrew, thanks for the post. Am an oral surgeon and suffering IPF since 1 yr. ON what inhaler are you?. Im on Foracort200 2 puff bd.

Andrew Hall Dc
(Sonora, Ca)
12/24/2017

Fred, I am using a Symbicort inhaler.

Replied by Stephanie
(Northampton)
06/03/2017

Is the laser treatment still working for you? How would someone get access to such a laser and use it?

Andrew Hall Dc
(Sonora, Ca)
12/24/2017
★★★★★

HI Stephanie,

yes the laser is still working for me. Just had another pulmonary function test and it had improved yet again! I'm thrilled with my progress.

Dr Andy Hall

Replied by Andrew Hall Dc
(Sonora, Ca)
06/21/2017
★★★★★

I would like to update my progress. Since my post on 8/10/16, I have had two more pulmonary function tests that have again improved. No additional fibrous tissue on CT. A gentleman named Garry from Australia has tried laser therapy and his pulmonologist was also shocked to see his pulmonary function tests improve. Please consider this therapy if you suffer from IPF and let me know how you respond. I will be happy to help you find a doctor with an appropriate laser.

Dr Andy Hall

Replied by Edward
(Coventry, R.i.)
07/10/2017

Can this Laser be purchased? Can a novice to operate without danger?

Andrew Hall Dc
(Sonora, Ca)
12/24/2017

Hi Edward. A Class 4 laser cannot be purchased by non doctors. You could get a Class 3 but won't penetrate deep enough into the lungs.

Richard
(Texas)
12/13/2022

I have used and taught about Class IV lasers for 30 years. The Aura PTL II from Biolight Technologies has a wonderful home laser with preprogrammed treatments. They will custom build the laser with the programs you need.

https://www.biolighttechnologies.com/

Replied by Dave
(New Orleans)
09/22/2017

This is the first time I'm hearing of this Laser therapy, where can I have it done? I hope locally. I sure appreciate the information.

Thanks, Dave

Replied by Andrew Hall Dc
(Sonora, Ca)
12/24/2017

Many chiropractors have Class 4 lasers. You could do a local search by going to either Litecure's website or Klaser's. Try litecure.com or Klaserusa.com and find the doctor locator search that they both have

Replied by Barb
(Maple Ridge, Bc)
04/24/2018

Dr Andrew Hall, I'm interested in the laser therapy, is it possible to get more info from you regarding this, ie would one go to a chiropractor for this type of therapy? and are you still doing well?

Thanks, Darb

Replied by Andrew Hall
(Sonora, CA)
02/06/2019
★★★★★

Editor's Choice It has been over a year since I last posted on this site.

I am still doing amazingly well. Blood oxygenation varies between 97-99 and I was diagnosed nearly 4 and 1/2 years ago. I have found doctors for a lot of IPF patients. They report back to me that their oxygenation is better and there are no reports of additional fibrous tissue on subsequent CT scans. Pretty darned remarkable! I have not heard back from anyone that didn't get better in at least some way. Some of them, the results have been dramatic, some of them the results were more subtle but at least there was some improvement in one way or another.

Due to the numbers of IPF patients that have stayed in contact, and all the consistent positive changes we have started a study. If interested in the study go to ipflaserstudy.com and check it out. Make no mistake, I nor anyone else claims this to be a cure, because the laser treatment does not appear to remove the fibrous tissue on subsequent CT scans. However, it does appear to arrest the progression of the disease. I would also suggest to IPF patients to join the forum for IPF patients.

Go to PulmonaryFibrosisNews.com It is a forum with caring, loving and supportive people and can be very helpful to you. If you would like to find a laser provider near you go to Klaserusa.com. At the top of the page click on Medical Patient. Then on the far right at the top of the page click on Find a Medical Provider. God Bless everyone dealing with this terrible disease.

Just know there is hope.....

Dr Hall

Magnesium Chloride

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Posted by Yriz (Arhus, Denmark) on 06/10/2013
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Pulmonary Calcification

In response to:

Posted by Sweetdevilwitch (Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam) on 05/17/2011: "Good day to you. How are you? I have my yearly x-ray last march, and the result were alarming I got a small pulmonary calcification but on my x-ray last year I dont have any problem. What should I do to get rid this calcification?:

I read in a book (Maria La Justicia Bergasa, she is from Spain) that some people got cured from pulmonary calcification using magnesium chloride.

Melatonin

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Posted by Art (California) on 02/09/2021 2528 posts
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I didn't mention it in the new COPD post on EC, but while melatonin is useful for COPD, it is also useful for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)! Here is a link to the new COPD article :

https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/melatonin-for-copd.html

Here are links to studies of melatonin and IPF :

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29567077/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30445883/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26122220/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16313495/

Melatonin is not a one trick pony and has shown efficacy in multiple health issues, yet doctors seem to mainly prescribe it as a sleep aid! If melatonin could become a patented prescription drug, it would be a blockbuster drug for what ever drug company held such a patent!

Art

Replied by T
(Mississippi)
08/23/2022

Art,

What are the recommended dosages of melatonin and NAC for treating IPF?

Thanks,

T

Art
(California)
08/23/2022
2528 posts

T,

In the following review they describe the use of NAC for IPF at 600 mg three times per day in divided doses for a total of 1800 mg/day.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6566037/#:~:text=NAC was orally administered in, and pirfenidone (two studies).

Here is a relevant quote from the review :

' The most commonly used oral dose [76.19% (16/21)] was 600 mg three times a day (1, 800 mg per day). Combined therapy frequently included corticosteroids (13 studies) and pirfenidone (two studies). '

Regarding the use of melatonin for IPF, no dosing schedule has yet been established. I can't give a dosage recommendation since I am not a doctor, but I can mention studies where melatonin was used for Parkinson's disease at 10 mg/day and 50 mg/day to good effect in the study participants. Here is a link to the 10 mg study :

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0303846720302213?via=ihub

Here is an important quote from the study :

' Compared with the placebo, melatonin supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β -0.94 mg/L; 95% CI, -1.55, -0.32; P = 0.003) and a significant elevation in plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (β 108.09 mmol/L; 95% CI, 78.21, 137.97; P < 0.001) and total glutathione (GSH) levels (β 77.08 μmol/L; 95% CI, 44.29, 109.86; P < 0.001). Additionally, consuming melatonin significantly decreased serum insulin levels (β -1.79 μIU/mL; 95% CI, -3.12, -0.46; P = 0.009), homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (β -0.47; 95% CI, -0.80, -0.13; P = 0.007), total- (β -13.16 mg/dL; 95% CI, -25.14, -1.17; P = 0.03) and LDL- (β -10.44 mg/dL; 95% CI, -20.55, -0.34; P = 0.04) compared with the placebo. '

Here is a link to the 50 mg/day study :

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8545577/

In the above study they found that melatonin at the dosage used, returned oxidative stress levels similarly to healthy control levels.

Here is a quote from the study :

' Taken together, our data showed that melatonin supplementation recovers mitochondrial function and diminishes oxidative stress. '

To get a better idea of exactly how much melatonin reduced oxidative stress markers in the study participants, take a look at "Figure 1". Here you can see how close melatonin got to control levels :

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8545577/figure/fig1/

The importance of lowering oxidative stress markers in IPF is outlined in detail in this article :

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.794997/full#:~:text=1.2 Oxidative Stress in Idiopathic, et al., 2018b).

Here is an important quote from the article :

' Oxidative stress arises as a result of an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) production and antioxidant defence that leads to cellular dysfunction and tissue damage (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2018b). '

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Art

Art
(California)
08/23/2022
2528 posts

T,

I forgot to include the last study which gives you a very good idea of why the well established mitochondrial protective effects of melatonin are important :

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5807592/#:~:text=Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis fibroblasts have, and increased rate of senescence.

Here is a relevant quote from the study :

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis fibroblasts have increased mtDNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired mitochondrial biogenesis, and increased rate of senescence. '

The following article goes into significant detail to describe the mitochondrial protective effects of melatonin :

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28864909/

A relevant quote :

' Thus, melatonin is not only taken up by mitochondria but these organelles, in addition to many other functions, also probably produce melatonin as well. Melatonin's high concentrations and multiple actions as an antioxidant provide potent antioxidant protection to these organelles which are exposed to abundant free radicals.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Art

Pier L.
(IL)
01/12/2023

That seems like a high dose of melatonin. Do you know anyone who has taken this? Thanks.

Art
(California)
01/13/2023
2528 posts

Pier L.

In the two studies I linked to for melatonin in people, one study used 10 mg/night and the other study used 25 mg at noon and 25 mg before bed for a total of 50 mg/day.

I know several people who use more than that dose, including myself. I use 132 mg of melatonin each night. I don't recommend that dose to anybody, that's just what I currently use after using 120 mg/night for one year and around 90 mg/night for one year. I intend to complete a year at 132 mg/night and likely increase further in my effort to try and get all of the multitudes of health effects from melatonin that I possibly can. I have written about many of these benefits on EC.

In the following study, they used 300 mg/day in the form of a suppository in ALS patients for up to 2 years. This is very significant because suppository melatonin is thought to have significantly higher bioavailability than oral melatonin, which has poor bioavailability estimated at 3 to 15% of total dose consumed, so the actual dose compared to oral dosing could potentially be significantly higher :

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17014688/

You may also be interested in my newest article about PF/IPF :

https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/five-supplements-for-pulmonary-fibrosis.html

Art

Melatonin
Posted by Art (California ) on 05/07/2018 2528 posts
 ★★★★★

There have been quite a few posts on EC about people looking for help for IPF, but I have not seen any posts discussing melatonin and IPF.

Here are some fairly recent studies suggesting that melatonin may offer some help in this area. Melatonin has a very good safety profile and is naturally produced by the human body suggesting a lower potential for adverse reactions. Melatonin is also readily available here in the states and is fairly inexpensive.

http://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/19/4/1118/htm

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26122220

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/jpi.12302

http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0097266

https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/abs/10.1164/ajrccm-conference.2016.193.1_MeetingAbstracts.A4169

Given the severe nature of IPF, it may be beneficial to look at as many options as possible and determine their relevance for your particular situation!

Art

Melatonin and NAC

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Multiple Remedies

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Posted by Elisabeth G. (Georgia ) on 10/27/2018 1 posts
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Hello. I am wondering if anyone might know of anything to help my grandfather whom is 77 years old and suffers from Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension as well as from Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. For the IPF, we have been doing the Hydrogen Peroxide inhalation method, along with colloidal silver, several different supplements, (such as seaweed, vitamin C, collagen, etc. to name a few) along with his prescription medications that are prescribed to him by his lung doctor, and of course he is also following these treatments with a healthy organic food diet along with exercise. Seems to be working well for him as far as treating the IPF.

My reason for this post is to ask if anyone is aware of anything we could be doing to treat the PAH....As it seems to be the more threatening or problematic of the two diseases. His heart doctor has suggested he use Sildenafil, however it's been about a year now that we've been waiting on the doctors and insurance to get everything approved for him so that he can finally get this medication, and still don't have the authorization yet. PLEASE HELP!! My grandfather is a wonderful man and we need help to fight this. We are about four years post diagnosis and times ticking. I have faith that someone somewhere might know something, anything, that can help with fighting and treating this PAH.

Thank you. God bless.

Replied by Teena
(Melbourne, Australia)
10/30/2018
233 posts

Some possible options, Gingko baloba, astragalus, vitamin E, coq10, see further suggestions and consider all interactions with meds.

Https://europepmc.org/articles/pmc6055327

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6055327/

https://www.epainassist.com/amp/chest-pain/lungs/how-to-treat-pulmonary-hypertension-naturally

Hawthorn is readily known for its heart health properties. More heart health boosters, you will see some are suggested for heart and lung support. http://greenpathherbschool.com/herbs-for-the-heart/

Keep researching, be aware of contraindications, you might also like to consult with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Best to you

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Naznine Q. (New York) on 09/05/2015
 ★★★★★

My response to all the people whose loved ones are having lung issues.

Listed below are some remedies,

  • Exposure to sunlight.
  • Body Massage.
  • Yoga.Meditation.
  • Castor oil packs.
  • Serrepeptase-an enzyme.
  • Turmeric taken with oil and pepper.
  • Aloe Vera.Pineapple.Cod Liver Oil, Fenugreek, Tulsi, Figs, Liccorice, Onions.Garlic,
  • Ginger.Black Pepper.Ginseng.Ajwain seeds.Star Anise.
  • Quercetin-is a flavanoid found in fruits and vegetables.Quercetin supplements can be purchased online.
  • Nigella Sativa(Kalonji or Black seeds).
  • Honey.Vitamin C.Vitamin A.Zinc.
  • 6-8 glasses of spring water.
  • NAC- this is a supplement. it helps to produce Glutathione, a master antioxidant in the body..It can be purchased online from Amazon or IHerb.

Multiple Remedies
Posted by Predcoat (Houston, Texas U S A.) on 06/01/2009
 ★★★★☆

My wife was recently diagnosed with IPF. We are currently doing a series of Hydrogen peroxide IVs and Taking Serrapeptase,MSC and COQ10. She is also on nightly Oxygen. I am concerned that the oxygen may become habitual and may even be a detriment. We are hoping for a cure or at least a stop in progression. What do you recomend? Thanks Jack.

Replied by Becky
(Austin, Tx)
10/05/2009

My mother also lives in Houston and Has IPF. Have you had any success with your treatment(s)? Thank you - Becky

Replied by Predcoat
(Houston, Texas)
09/01/2010
★★★★☆

Since my letter of 6/1/09 we have been doing a variety of remedies for my wife's IPF. I feel we are progressing slowly with NAC, Enzymes, MSM etc. I can't say it's a cure but we couldn't do nothing. I am hoping for several more years together and am still looking for more methods to make her life better. The cooler weather will be a plus.

NAC

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Posted by Robert H. (Galveston, Texas) on 02/16/2016
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IPF: After a triple coronary bypass about 2011 about 3 months later I noticed a continuing discomfort around my upper left side of my chest. A referral by my cardiologist to a pulmonary specialist discovered my IPF. He prescribed an albuterol compound for my nebulizer and to sleep all night with oxygen. By my second lung function text it showed a rapid deterioration in my ability to process ambient air. The Dr. arranged for me to receive a new medication called Esbriet (54 mg daily)with little results.

I located a holistic doctor who is a board certified doctor of internal medicine with 29 years of experience caring for mostly refinery workers which fit my life profile perfectly. She put me on 1800 mg of Nac daily and later Nac liquid for my nebulizer. My last lung function test after about 3 months on this protocol showed about 7% improvement across the board, which pleased her greatly. She recommended that I consider 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide intravenously 2 times a week for the next 10 weeks. I have located someone who will do this and I will begin this treatment as soon as I save up the money. I'l let ya'll know what happens. I'll see what my JESUS wants, (amen)

Replied by Pier
(Illinois)
01/07/2023

Hello, did the hydrogen peroxide IV work? Did you see any benefits? Thank you!

Replied by Deena
(Orlando, FL)
02/02/2025

I have started taking NAC. I read that you should take it twice a day on an empty stomach. I also read that you should take 1800 mg each day. So my questions is do you take 1800 mg twice each day? Or do you take 900 mg twice each day? Thanks in advance.

NAC
Posted by Sam (Miami, US) on 10/19/2014
 ★★★★★

Please check this link about NAC for lung diseases including IPF. http://www.lef.org/Magazine/2010/5/N-Acetyl-Cysteine/Page-02

NAC
Posted by Chris (Seattle, WA) on 12/31/2008
 ★★★★☆

NSIP Pulmonary Fibrosis:

Just diagnosed at mild to moderate stage, but had been taking NAC with Selenium twice a day and also herbal Clear Lungs, very helpful with breathing. I need it in the emergency dose of every 4 hours. The product does not claim to be a cure, but does claim to help breathing and it does and acts quickly as it claims. No side effects. My MD recommended Selenium via Brazil Nuts. My specialist prescribed more NAC, but also Prednisone, Azathioprine,whose side effects sound so horrific it seems I would be sicker than I am now.

The Albuterol spray was given at the testing site, to which I immediately felt ill and had a severe headache. I have severe congestion of the tonsils. Is this usual, the doc thought it was unrelated. I have to avoid wind, fans, forced hot air etc because it sets me off, also I have allergies.Particularly to dust and dairy.

I certainly intend to try your suggestions. Would love any input and advice. Blessings to all.

EC: NSIP = Non-Specific Interstitial Pneumonia
NAC = N-Acetyl-Cysteine

Neprinol (Systemic Enzymes)

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Posted by Howard (Cessnock, NSW, Australia) on 04/16/2008
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I have pulmonary fibrosis and have been treated (without result) by the standard medical method and I am now trying systemic enzymes (dispensed by capsule containing various enzymes combined in a very specific amounts for each of the dozen or so enzymes). This treatment has only been going for 2 weeks and although there are some positive signs it is still too early to make a definitive assessment. For instance, my voice has almost returned to normal and I can now sing once more.

Replied by Tonja
(Washington, DC)
04/22/2008

There was a comment from a gentleman dated 04/16/08 for the IPF. He stated that he was on some enzymes (for 2 weeks) and has seen some improvement. I would like to know what they are: my father has IPF and I am trying to figure out what to use. thank you.

Replied by Howard
(Cessnock, NSW, Australia)
04/24/2008
★★★★★

To Tonja via Deirdre,

Although I have been on Neprinol for a matter of weeks I have seen some very positive improvement in my condition (IPF) and also some bonus changes unconnected to IPF.

In the matter of IPF I was having great difficultywalking any real distance 200/300 yards,especially on flat amd hilly ground and light activity in the garden (digging,weeding and moving the wheel barrow around with light loads) and 15 minutes or so would find me very breathless.Whereas, now I can work for at least 40minutes with the mower/chopping with the axe/digging with the mattoch etc and whilst I will then be quite puffef out my recovery time only takes about 7/10 minutes.

As for the "bonuses" -these can be seen in the slow dissappearence of a scar on my upper lip that has been there for many many years (I am 82 ) ,my right wrist which was fractured badly some decades ago and only had about 75% rotational movement is now as mobile as my other wrist, also I am noticing a vast improvement in my ability while driving my car,to turn and twist my neck and head to look left and right over either shoulder to check for traffic.Prior to this my flexibility in this area was quite restricted due to R/A,This brings me to another bonus ie; I no longer take anti-steroidal drugs for R/A and have no real pain in my feet and hands.

I hope my experience gives you some insight into what course of action you should take for your father,keeping in mind that all meds do not work for everyone in an identical way,but I do feel that ,as the old saying goes "If it wont help, it wont hurt".It certainly is helping me.I am looking forward to my next chest x-ray to see if there has been any significant improvement in my lung condition(about 3 months time).

Replied by Becky
(Austin, Tx)
10/05/2009

Has anyone had any relief for Pulmonary Fibrosis using Neprinol? How much did you take? Would also like more info on these other enzymes...Thank you!

Nitrium Phos 200

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Posted by Baqir (Islamabad) on 07/03/2015
 ★★★★★

Anyone want to get rid of IPF (Idiopathic Fibrosis of lungs), please try homeopathic medicine....Nitrium Phos 200. Take this medicine everyday and be happy and trust in God. Please try to be happy all the time. Worries only add to the disease.

Replied by Stacey
(Florida)
01/13/2017

Where do I get Nitrium Phosphate 200? My husband has PF and Dr's have suggested Palliative care. I don't want to give up on him!

Replied by Janet
(In)
01/14/2017

Stacey, Amazon and 1 800 homeopathey are some sources.

Although I would read through Teds remedies here on Earth Clinic.

He is spot on with his remedies.

Janet

https://ted.earthclinic.com/cures/pulmonary-fibrosis-lung-disease-remedies.html

OFEV Side Effects

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Posted by Larry (Arizona) on 04/06/2022

I also have IPF, for 4 years now. They put me on OFEV. I took it for a couple of years but I just got tired of all the side effects. As to the cost, $9000.00 a month but I paid nothing. Have your Doctor contact the company that makes it and they will give you a grant for the cost.. Good Luck.

Replied by Shelly10983
(Fl)
03/04/2018

Hello, my husband was diagnosed with IPF about 7 years ago. The first doctor put him on Prednisone for about a year, which did nothing except suppress the cough and his symptoms. Plus, it gave him serious mood swings and gained about 30 pounds. There are only two drugs for IPF Esbriet (which gave him horrible side affects of extreme itching and discolored skin when he went in the sun). I should say even in low light his skin turned a purplish red and unbearable itching.

He has now been on OFEV (another approved drug for IPF. Although it doesn't stop or improve the progression, it does seem to help. However, you have to do more than take these drugs for IPF. Whether it is a homeopathic treatment or oxygen, these two drugs don't seem to be enough. I am researching into herbal medicine in addition to OFEV in the hopes of improving lung function. One thing for sure is to keep away from others with colds or flu. When you have IPF and are exposed to colds or flu, it seems to intensify ones IPF symptoms and can linger for weeks.

Replied by JD
(Australia)
12/12/2022

Ofev is a terrible drug with horrific side effects.

My dad has had it for over 3-5 years now. Lost so much weight, no appetite etc. Had a heart attack a few weeks ago from it. Another side effect. Has not taken it for several weeks now and has got his appetite back and colour in his skin. Figuring out another natural remedy as im sure theres plenty out there. WOULDN'T IHALLING PURE OXYGEN DO THE TRICK, CONSIDERING the lungs can start to heal from ovygen getting into the blood stream???? These drugs they have designed for this illness aren't a cure only trying to stop the immune system from creating scarring on the lungs. Doesn't seem to be working in year 4-5 of the condition. I recommend stem cell therapy but I'm not sure a doctor studying medicine wont like that word. (stem cell therapy)

OFEV Side Effects
Posted by Pauline (California, USA) on 02/17/2022

My husband was just diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis, although I hear he is at beginning stage. Just out of the hospital a few days ago and we are doing our first follow up with our Pulmonary doctor tomorrow. He has talked about Ofav, however, here in the states it's outrageously expensive, $2000-$5000 for 60 tablets. How in the world can you afford it? I see you are out of the country. What is your cost where you are. Hope you will respond.

Pauline

Replied by Art
(California)
02/17/2022
2528 posts

If you are looking for alternative remedies for Pulmonary Fibrosis, it will be worthwhile to look into Melatonin :

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=melatonin+pulmonary+fibrosis&sort=date&size=20

And N Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) :

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=N+Acetyl+Cysteine+pulmonary+fibrosis&sort=date&size=20

Both have very good safety profiles with melatonin having the better safety profile and both are inexpensive and readily available. Good luck!

Art

Replied by Art
(California)
02/17/2022
2528 posts

I forgot to mention that it may also be worthwhile to know the side effects of Ofev before you use it :

https://www.drugs.com/ofev.html#side-effects

Now compare those to the side effects of Melatonin and NAC.

https://www.drugs.com/mcf/melatonin-side-effects-what-are-the-risks

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327219#risks

Art

Replied by Art
(California)
04/05/2022
2528 posts

Simone,

Unfortunately, melatonin is only at the animal stage of testing, so a human dose has not yet been established for Pulmonary Fibrosis. Dr. Neel is effectively using melatonin at 1 mg per kilogram of body weight in over 2000 of his Covid-19 patients. Dr. Shallenberger gives all of his patients 180 mg/day and for his stage 4 cancer patients he gives over 300 mg/day. I take 120 mg+ per night myself. If you would like to contact him to see if he has treated PF patients with melatonin, his number is (775) 884 - 3990.

Not everyone can tolerate melatonin every day so for those who plan to test it, working your way up slowly to the desired dose is a good idea. If a person does not tolerate oral melatonin, they can naturally increase their melatonin levels significantly by exposing themselves to the earlier morning sun. When melatonin is increased naturally in the body, it does not have side effects other than improved health.

On the other hand, NAC has moved past animal studies to human studies in people with Pulmonary Fibrosis to good effect and the dose that has been used is 600 mg given three times per day for a total of 1800 mg/day.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6566037/

Another consideration is bringing your vitamin D level well up into the reference range of 30 ~ 100 ng/ml.

This study suggests that vitamin d may have positive effects on Pulmonary Fibrosis and has the relevance to potentially have predictive value. Many people are insufficient or deficient in their vitamin D levels.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30659895/

Lastly, Red Light Therapy has shown some benefit in lung protective effects as discussed in the following article, but importantly, while you are getting morning sun exposure to naturally increase your melatonin levels, you can also get the full spectrum of red light that the sun radiates upon the earth including the infrared range of red light which is not visible to the human eye.

https://awakenforwellness.com/red-light-therapys-impact-on-your-respiratory-health-its-potential-healing-in-covid-19-symptoms/

Importantly, red light from the sun is stronger than many units sold online and it is free for the taking from earlier morning sunlight and later afternoon sunlight which will also help to limit UV light exposure that is stronger at mid-day.

Art

Replied by Tan
(MS)
07/26/2022

Art,

Is there a particular brand of NAC that is best? Amazon has a few different versions but it seems hard to find just regular NAC.

Thanks in advance!

Tan

Replied by Art
(California)
07/26/2022
2528 posts

Tan,

Amazon made a decision to stop carrying NAC awhile back, but it is readily available from multiple supplement suppliers so don't waste your time looking for NAC on Amazon. Here is a link to one supplier out of many that carries many different brands of NAC :

https://www.vitacost.com/productsearch.aspx?t=NAC&mp=1

I do not have a brand to recommend.

Art

Replied by Tan
(MS)
07/27/2022

GREAT! Thank you.


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