I no longer see my ID doctor, or my original pulmonologist. I changed to a pulmonologist that specializes in bronchiectasis now. Thru this site I realized I was getting some misinformation from both doctors, even though they said they treat many MAC patients. I was put on levequin after the rifampin didn't work for 4 months but then got tingly toes and joint pain. My sputem was not tested for 7 months on the 3 meds, which I had to initiate, (which is one more reason I switched drs.) Luckily my sputem sample from July was negative of Mac. so now I am on 500 mg. azithromycin and 1400 ethambutol 3 x week. I am testing sputem every month to make sure MAC doesn't come back while only on the 2 meds. If all goes okay, I'm hoping to get off everything by May/June. I was so hesitant to start meds. and the first docs. basically scared the crap out of me so I gave in. At this point I'm too far in my commitment to stop. Taking the meds. did get a bit easier over time, stomach is not as touchy and I'm not getting pains like I did in the beginning. Good luck and speak up and ask lots of questions, I was too intimidated a year ago.