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Tigecycline

MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: 19 hours ago | Replies (9)

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@sueinmn

I understand your nervousness. When I was diagnosed, I refused azithromycin and was treated with another drug instead because of past reactions to prescribed Z-packs. Wow, it turned out the alternative (lost in the sludge of my memory) was worse - so we tried slowly introducing the azithromycin and I tolerated it. And when I had Pseudomonas, it took two tries to get a drug I could tolerate.

Why did I tell this story? To let you know that sometimes antibiotic therapy, especially for our lung infections, is often a two-steps-forward-one-step-back proposition. You may well have to work with your doctor to see what you can take. If they are at all familiar with treating MAC (I think you might have M Abscessus) they are also accustomed to having to try/adjust/try again.

Tigecycline is a strong antibiotic, so side effects are more common, Some of the effects that we get can be managed (nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain) and may lessen as the body gets used to them. Others may be a "no go" and you will have to change. Here is a review of the drug:
https://www.drugs.com/sfx/tigecycline-side-effects.html
The usual side effects do affect a about 1/3 of people, and you will be encouraged to try to get through them, as unpleasant as that sounds. If the result is getting rid of the infection, it is worth it. Familiarize yourself with the potential serious side effects (less than 10% of patients get them) and let your care team know right away.

Will you be doing this in hospital, at an infusion center, or at home?

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Replies to "I understand your nervousness. When I was diagnosed, I refused azithromycin and was treated with another..."

The original plan was for a PICC line and home infusions but that was before only 3 drugs tested susceptible. The treatment plan hasn't been finalized and i am considering refusing treatmen5, so just wondering how bad it can get and whether there is hope of sailing through relatively unscathed. Thanks for the lengthy reply. All the input really helps and it is gratifying to know there are people out there who care enough tovtake the time and effort.

I used the provided link. Thanks. Wow, that's quite the list!