Does Anyone take MAC medications Monday thru Friday

Posted by jessmac @jessmac, Aug 24 5:47pm

I’m scheduled to begin the triple antibiotics to combat MAC Monday thru Friday and would like to know if this seems normal. Most of the comments refer to either 3 times a week or every day. I haven’t seen any referring to M-F. I actually read using AI that this is a very unusual timing for these drugs. Appreciate any comments.

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annescoln | @annescoln | Aug 26 1:06pm

In reply to @marieaw "@annescoln Do you take all three at the same time, or spread them out through the..." + (show)

@marieaw I take them after each of the three meals or (snacks) . Good luck!

Sue, Volunteer Mentor | @sueinmn | Aug 26 8:03pm

In reply to @jessmac "@sueinmn thanks for the information. Sounds extremely complicated, don't think I have the right doctor. I..." + (show)

@jessmac I don't know your doctor, or how long you have been with them. But MAC is a rare infection, and few pulmonologists see it regularly in their practice, so may not be up-to-date on treatment protocols.
That said, MAC is a VERY slow growing infection, so there is little downside to taking the time to find a specialist. Here is a list of centers of excellence, maybe one is near you:
https://social.bronchandntm.org/directory/find-a-bronchiectasis-and-ntm-center
Also, based on severity of the infection, some people choose to take a "watch and wait" approach, using 7% saline nebs and daily airway clearance to tamp down the infection without antibiotics.

Just another story - My Mom had bronchiectasis and asthma as well as MAC (called MAI back then.) Because she was in her mid-80's with other health issues, the choice was to treat with nebs only and short term antibiotics for flare-ups, because it was unlikely her body would have tolerated the rigors of the 3 antibiotic regimen. Years later, when I was on the antibiotics myself for almost 2 years, I appreciated her doctors' wisdom. She died some time later of her other health (heart issues) not MAI or Bronchiectasis.

jessmac | @jessmac | Aug 27 3:52pm

Thanks for all the info. I live just out of Houston so I have been thinking about Baylor. I’m still considering 2 Pulmonologists in my area, both claim vast experience with NTMs and decades of general lung diseases.