Can pirfenidone cause a rash?

In three phase 3 studies, patients who received pirfenidone 2403 mg/day had a higher incidence of photosensitivity reactions (9%) than those who received placebo (1%). Most photosensitivity reactions occur in the first 6 months, and patients are instructed to avoid or minimize exposure to the sun (including sunlamps), use sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher), and wear sun-protective clothing. Additionally instruct patients to avoid concomitant medications known to cause photosensitivity. Use of pirfenidone in the postmarketing setting has been associated with serious cutaneous adverse reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms. In some cases of photosensitivity reaction or rash, pirfenidone may need to be reduced or discontinued.