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Starting MAC treatment with "big three" drugs: What to expect?
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: May 8 5:56pm | Replies (192)Comment receiving replies
I started the “big three” about 2 months ago and took them at different times until I discovered I COULD take them all together because they did not affect my stomach. No nausea, no pain…I am blessed. One thing I have noticed, and wonder if others have the same issue, I’m tired and not much energy. Is this typical…I am 85, I get I am not a kid anymore but I always did the heavy stuff, vacuuming, carrying 40# sacks of dog food, etc. until all this lung stuff and meds started. I didn’t expect everything to change so drastically, so quickly. Doc did all kinds of blood work, all is well. I’m right in the middle of everything on the tests.
Still coughing up crud, so I know there is still infection in the pockets of my lungs. Not happy about that. I see doc at the end of the month so I have a list of questions. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks all! Mary
Replies to "I started the “big three” about 2 months ago and took them at different times until..."
Well God bless you real well Mary. Tired- fatigued- yes probably from your body fighting it with help from the meds. You are blessed to be able to do so much at 85. You must have great genes ( except for getting MAC)! Wishing you well! Irene5
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Hello, MaryJo
I am on rifabutin, clofazimine, amikacin and ethambutol, so it's part of the Big 3.
I have noticed extreme fatigue from this regimen, but I think it's mostly the ethambutol. I don't think you're imagining it. The medication is strong, and no doubt can cause fatigue--at least that's what I noticed is listed as side effects for some of these. Are some days worse than others? That's what I noticed. Please drink a lot of water to flush the toxins out and help save your liver and kidney functions. That might also help with the fatigue.
Mokie