Diagnostic Code 6829 · 38 CFR §4.97
Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis or fibrosis occurs when medications cause inflammation or scarring in the lungs. Veterans may develop this as a side effect of medications prescribed during or after service, including certain antibiotics, chemotherapy agents, cardiac medications (amiodarone), or anti-inflammatory drugs. If the causative medication was prescribed for a service-connected condition, the lung damage itself is service-connectable on a secondary basis.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Mild residual lung changes after drug discontinuation with minimal PFT impairment. FVC or DLCO mildly reduced. |
| 30% | Moderate residual pulmonary impairment persisting after the causative drug was stopped. PFTs show meaningful reduction in lung function. |
| 60% | Significant irreversible lung damage from drug exposure with substantially reduced PFT values and exercise intolerance. |
| 100% | Severe pulmonary fibrosis from drug toxicity causing respiratory failure or requiring continuous oxygen therapy. |
Medical records showing the medication prescribed and its timeline. Documentation linking the medication to the lung damage (pulmonologist opinion). PFTs before and after drug exposure if available. Evidence that the medication was prescribed for a service-connected condition (for secondary claims). Current PFTs and imaging.
Common culprits include amiodarone (heart medication), methotrexate (autoimmune conditions), bleomycin (chemotherapy), nitrofurantoin (antibiotic), and certain biologics. If you developed respiratory symptoms while on any long-term medication, discuss the connection with your doctor.
Yes. If VA-prescribed medication for a service-connected condition caused lung damage, that is a valid secondary service connection claim. You may also have a 1151 claim if the prescribing was negligent, though that is a separate legal theory.