I was on antibiotics for over 18 months, switching from 3x week to daily at 1 year to daily. Arikayce was not an option back then. At 18 months my CT was better but I was sick, depressed and still losing weight- underrated 100 lbs - but still MAC positive. With my 3 docs I decided to stop antibiotics and rely on 7% saline and airway clearance to try to heal.
A year later my CT scan had improved a little and 2 of 3 cultures were negative for MAC. I was regaining energy and weight and felt like I was getting my life back.
In the 4 years since then I have gotten my asthma under control, had minimal exacerbation, and my BE is stable.
Now, since December, we are trialing no nebs, just airway clearance except if I feel I need extra help. Today I did a half vial of saline and managed to cough up extra mucus. I will continue this until tree pollen season is over.
Every one is different, and I have made these adjustments with the help of my pulmonologist.