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Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lung condition that usually has a bad prognosis and progresses rapidly. The INPULSIS and ASCEND trial results, as well as the approval of nintedanib and pirfenidone, have heralded the start of a new era for IPF patients. But there are still uncertainties. Should these medications be taken sooner? How will they impact more serious illness? Do they have any after-effects after the trial period? The use of ant fibrotic drugs in IPF was the subject of a multidisciplinary meeting amongst doctors in pulmonology, radiology, and pathology, which produced this publication. According to our analysis of the available data, pirfenidone and nintedanib prevent functional deterioration in the early stages of disease. When given to individuals with advanced disease at the time of diagnosis, these medications also seem to have therapeutic advantages and remain beneficial over time. Further research is required, however the data also imply that ant fibrotic therapy should be continued even as the disease progresses. For preventing functional decline, halting disease progression, and enhancing quality of life, early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
