Specialty Pharmacy Services
Ofev (Nintedanib)
Oral Capsule · Twice Daily · With Food
Ofev (nintedanib) is a specialty medication used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other progressive lung conditions. Accord Specialty Pharmacy provides Ofev with prior authorization support, copay assistance coordination, and doorstep delivery.
Drug at a Glance
- Drug Class Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (Anti-fibrotic)
- Generic Name Nintedanib
- Brand Name Ofev®
- Route Oral capsule, twice daily with food
- Manufacturer Boehringer Ingelheim (brand Ofev) / multiple generics
Clinically Reviewed By · Accord Clinical Team, PharmD, RPh
Ofev (Nintedanib) at a Glance
| Feature | Ofev (Nintedanib) |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Nintedanib |
| Brand Name | Ofev® |
| Drug Class | Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (Anti-fibrotic) |
| FDA Approved For | IPF, SSc-ILD, and progressive fibrosing ILD |
| FDA Approved (Year) | 2014 (IPF) · 2019 (SSc-ILD) · 2020 (PF-ILD) |
| Approved Population | Adults |
| Dosage Form | Oral capsule, twice daily with food |
| Available Generic | Yes, as of 2026 |
| Specialty Pharmacy Required | Often required by insurance |
| Prior Authorization | Frequently required |
| Copay Assistance Available | Yes, for eligible commercially insured patients |
| Home Delivery | Available through Accord Specialty Pharmacy |
FDA-Approved Uses
What Ofev (Nintedanib) Is Used For
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
IPFIPF is a chronic, progressive lung disease in which tissue becomes scarred and stiff over time, making breathing increasingly difficult. The cause is unknown ("idiopathic"). Ofev is FDA-approved to slow the rate of lung function decline in patients with IPF.1,2
- Chronic, progressive scarring of lung tissue
- Slows decline in lung function (FVC)
Systemic Sclerosis-Associated ILD
SSc-ILDSystemic sclerosis (scleroderma) is an autoimmune disease that can involve the lungs. When the lungs are affected, the condition is called SSc-ILD. Ofev is approved to slow the rate of decline in lung function in patients with this autoimmune-driven form of interstitial lung disease.2,4
- Interstitial lung disease associated with scleroderma
- Slows progressive loss of lung function
Progressive Fibrosing ILD
PF-ILDSeveral types of interstitial lung disease beyond IPF and SSc-ILD can progressively worsen over time despite treatment. Ofev is approved for this broader category of chronic fibrosing ILDs that show a progressive phenotype — meaning the disease continues to advance.2
- Chronic fibrosing ILDs with progressive behavior
- Includes multiple ILD subtypes beyond IPF
Your prescriber is the right person to discuss which diagnosis applies to your situation and whether Ofev is appropriate for you. Learn more about idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute ↗, or read about Pulmonology specialty pharmacy services →
What Is Ofev (Nintedanib)?
Ofev (nintedanib) is a prescription medication designed to slow the progression of certain serious lung diseases. It belongs to a class of medications called tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which work by blocking specific signaling proteins that drive the scarring and stiffening of lung tissue. Ofev does not reverse existing damage — but it can meaningfully slow how quickly the disease progresses.2
By interfering with the growth factor signals that promote fibrosis, Ofev reduces the rate at which healthy lung tissue is replaced by scar tissue. This mechanism is the basis for its approval across three distinct lung conditions: IPF, SSc-ILD, and progressive fibrosing ILD. Each involves progressive scarring, and in each case Ofev has been shown to slow the decline in lung function (measured as FVC).2
Ofev comes as a soft gelatin capsule and is taken twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, with food. Taking it with a meal reduces the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects and supports consistent absorption.3 Accord manages the coordination between your prescriber, your insurance plan, and the manufacturer support programs that help make treatment accessible. Learn how Accord supports patients →
Ofev Side Effects and What to Watch For
Like all specialty medications, Ofev can cause side effects. Most patients are able to continue treatment, though gastrointestinal effects — particularly diarrhea — are common enough that your prescriber will likely discuss them with you before you start.3
Taking Ofev with food helps reduce stomach-related side effects, and staying hydrated is important if diarrhea occurs. Your prescriber may also recommend strategies or adjustments if GI effects become difficult to manage. Liver function is monitored regularly during treatment, as Ofev can cause changes in liver enzyme levels. If anything concerns you while taking Ofev, call Accord's pharmacy team at 1-855-222-6730.
Gastrointestinal and General Effects3
- Diarrhea — the most frequently reported side effect (occurred in about 62% of patients in clinical trials, vs. 18% on placebo); typically manageable with hydration and dietary adjustments
- Nausea, vomiting, and reduced appetite
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Increased blood pressure (hypertension)
Liver Function3
- Ofev can cause elevations in liver enzymes — liver function tests (LFTs, including ALT, AST, and bilirubin) are checked before starting treatment, at regular intervals during the first three months, and periodically after that
- Symptoms of liver problems may include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or unusual fatigue
- Report any of these symptoms to your prescriber promptly
Report to Your Care Team Promptly3
- Bleeding or unusual bruising: Ofev increases the risk of bleeding — report any unusual bleeding, blood in stool, or coughing up blood, especially if you take a blood thinner (anticoagulation therapy requires closer monitoring while on Ofev)
- Arterial thromboembolic events: heart attack and stroke have been reported in patients taking Ofev; know the warning signs
- Gastrointestinal perforation: rare but serious, with somewhat higher risk if you have had recent abdominal surgery, a history of diverticular disease, or take corticosteroids or NSAIDs — seek immediate care if you experience sudden severe abdominal pain
Ofev vs. Esbriet for IPF
Ofev (nintedanib) and Esbriet (pirfenidone) are both FDA-approved antifibrotic medications used for IPF. No head-to-head randomized trial has directly compared the two, but real-world and comparative studies give a general picture of how they differ.8 Your prescriber is the right person to decide which is appropriate for your situation.
| Ofev (Nintedanib) | Esbriet (Pirfenidone) | |
|---|---|---|
| FDA-Approved For3 | IPF, SSc-ILD, and progressive fibrosing ILD | IPF only |
| Effect on Lung Function Decline8 | Slows FVC decline; no significant efficacy difference found vs. pirfenidone in comparative studies | Slows FVC decline; no significant efficacy difference found vs. nintedanib in comparative studies |
| Most Distinctive Side Effects8 | Diarrhea (the primary reason for dose reduction), nausea, reduced appetite | Photosensitivity and skin rash, nausea |
| Liver Monitoring8 | Regular liver function monitoring required | Regular liver function monitoring required |
| Dosing8 | Capsule, twice daily with food | Tablet or capsule, three times daily with food |
These comparisons are based on published clinical studies. The choice between medications should be individualized by your treating specialist.
Accord dispenses both Ofev and Esbriet. Questions about which one fits your situation? Call 1-855-222-6730 and our pharmacists can help you think through what to ask your prescriber.
Prior Authorization for Ofev (Nintedanib)
Most insurance plans require prior authorization before covering Ofev. Prior authorization is a process where your prescriber submits clinical documentation to your insurance plan confirming that Ofev is medically necessary for your condition. For a specialty medication like Ofev, this typically includes pulmonary function test results, diagnosis documentation, and the clinical rationale for treatment.
When Accord receives your referral, we contact your prescriber's office to gather what your insurance plan requires, submit the prior authorization request, and follow up proactively until a decision is reached. If your plan issues a denial, we work alongside your prescriber to build a formal appeal with the additional documentation needed to support your case. Information for prescribers →
Prior Authorization Process
Documentation
We request clinical records, pulmonary function test results, and diagnosis documentation from your prescriber
PA Submission
Prior authorization submitted to your insurance plan with full clinical documentation
Plan Decision
Approval issued, or denial received — timelines vary by payer
Appeal if Denied
We build a formal appeal with your prescriber to support your case
Note on appeals: A denial is not necessarily final. Many initially denied requests for Ofev are approved on formal appeal. Our team manages this process alongside your prescriber at no additional burden to your care team.
Ofev Cost and Financial Assistance
Ofev cost at list price is a common concern for patients newly prescribed this medication. What you actually pay depends on your insurance plan, your deductible, and which assistance programs you qualify for. Our team works through all of that before your first fill.
Commercially Insured — Brand
Boehringer Ingelheim CareConnect Copay Savings
$0 as low as, for eligible patients
Boehringer Ingelheim's CareConnect program offers a copay savings card for eligible commercially insured patients prescribed brand Ofev. Out-of-pocket costs may be significantly reduced from standard insurance cost-sharing. Not available for Medicare, Medicaid, or other government-insured patients.5
Commercially Insured — Generic
Generic Nintedanib
Ask our team about generic nintedanib pricing
Multiple manufacturers received FDA approval for generic nintedanib capsules in 2026. Availability and pricing through pharmacy channels can vary by manufacturer. Call us at 1-855-222-6730 to discuss whether a generic option is available for your prescription.7
Uninsured or Underinsured
Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation
$0 for eligible uninsured or underinsured patients
The Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation provides brand Ofev free of charge to eligible patients who are uninsured or underinsured and meet income guidelines. Applications require income documentation and are typically submitted with support from your prescriber's office.6
Medicare
Independent Foundation Grants
Varies by foundation and funding availability
The Boehringer Ingelheim manufacturer copay program is not available for Medicare patients. Independent patient assistance foundations may offer grants for Ofev costs depending on your specific situation. Our team can help identify what may be available for you.
Have questions about your specific coverage? Call 1-855-222-6730 or contact us online. Our team reviews your coverage and helps connect you to every program you may qualify for.
Getting Started
What to Expect with Accord
Referral Sent
Your prescriber sends a referral to Accord by fax or online referral form.
Insurance Verified
We confirm your coverage, benefits, and any cost-sharing requirements.
Prior Authorization
We submit clinical documentation and manage the PA process on your behalf.
Financial Assistance
We identify programs that may fit your situation and help connect you to the right resources.
Doorstep Delivery
Your medication ships directly to your door in states where Accord is licensed.
Have Questions About Ofev?
Common Questions About Ofev (Nintedanib)
Does Accord Specialty Pharmacy carry Ofev?
Yes. Accord is a licensed specialty pharmacy that dispenses Ofev (nintedanib). We manage prior authorization, financial assistance coordination, and doorstep delivery in states where Accord holds an active pharmacy license.
How do I transfer my Ofev prescription to Accord?
Your prescriber can send a referral directly to Accord using our referral form, or by faxing to 386-456-3000. You can also call us at 1-855-222-6730 and our team will walk you through the process.
How long does prior authorization take for Ofev?
Timelines vary by insurance plan. Our team begins working on your prior authorization as soon as we receive your referral and follows up proactively to keep things moving. We keep both you and your prescriber updated throughout the process.
What if my insurance denies Ofev?
A denial is not necessarily final. Our team works with your prescriber to submit a formal appeal with the additional documentation needed to support your case. Many initially denied requests are approved on appeal.
Is there a generic version of Ofev?
Yes — multiple manufacturers received FDA approval for generic nintedanib capsules in 2026.7 As with many newly approved generics, availability and pricing through pharmacy channels can vary by manufacturer. Call us at 1-855-222-6730 to discuss your current options.
Ofev vs. Esbriet — what is the difference?
Both Ofev (nintedanib) and Esbriet (pirfenidone) are FDA-approved for IPF and have been shown to slow lung function decline, with no significant efficacy difference found between them in comparative studies — though no head-to-head randomized trial has directly compared the two.8 See our full Ofev vs. Esbriet comparison for a side-by-side look at approved uses, side effects, and dosing. Your prescriber is the right person to discuss which is the better fit for your overall health picture. Accord dispenses both medications.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Ofev?
The Ofev prescribing information does not include a specific alcohol restriction, but Ofev can affect liver function and alcohol also places demands on the liver, so many prescribers recommend limiting alcohol during treatment as a precaution. This is a judgment call best made with your prescriber based on your liver function tests and overall health. Talk to your prescriber or our pharmacist about what is appropriate for your situation — our pharmacy team can be reached at 1-855-222-6730.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Ofev?
If you miss a dose, take the next dose at your regular scheduled time. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the one you missed, and do not exceed the maximum daily dose.3 If you have questions about a missed dose, call our pharmacists at 1-855-222-6730.
Does Ofev interact with other medications?
Yes. Ofev is processed by an enzyme (CYP3A4) and a transporter (P-glycoprotein) in the body, and medications that inhibit these, such as ketoconazole, can meaningfully increase the amount of nintedanib in your system.3 Ofev can also increase bleeding risk, so if you take a blood thinner, your prescriber will want to monitor you more closely. Give your prescriber and our pharmacists a complete list of your medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, so we can check for interactions.
For Patients
Ready to Get Started?
Our team coordinates everything — insurance verification, prior authorization, financial assistance, and delivery. Call us or ask your prescriber to send a referral, and we take it from there.
Call 1-855-222-6730For Prescribers
Refer a Patient to Accord
Download the Ofev referral form, complete all sections, and fax to 386-456-3000. We confirm receipt within one business day and manage prior authorization on your behalf.
Download Referral FormReferences (8)
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. What Is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis? U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. nhlbi.nih.gov
- Fonseca V, Thakkar S, Bhatt DL. Nintedanib. StatPearls. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- OFEV (nintedanib) Prescribing Information. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. accessdata.fda.gov
- Cottin V, Brown KK. Interstitial lung disease associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc-ILD). Respiratory Research. National Library of Medicine. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Boehringer Ingelheim. CareConnect Patient Support Program. boehringer-ingelheim.com
- Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation. Patient Assistance Portal. boehringer-ingelheim.com
- Drugs.com. Generic Ofev (nintedanib) Availability. drugs.com
- Chianese M, et al. Pirfenidone and Nintedanib in Pulmonary Fibrosis: Lights and Shadows. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2024;17(6):709. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov