(MAC/MAI) Mycobacterium Avium Complex Pulmonary Disease: Join us

Thanks for the info, Terri. I will check out the article. My infection was discovered 28 months after the open heart surgery. So far the infection site appears to be contained in my chest wall. It is not in my blood; however, the cultures are still growing regarding my bones and muscles. So far, no damage has appeared in my heart or lungs. I'm alive, very upset about this whole scenario, fighting with everything I have to get my life back again.

Am thinking that after all these years dealing with folks who have had the
aftermath of this issues, there will be set “protocols”keep me posted if
you have time

Just starting the big three and wonder which way to do the dosages. All at once at night, or spread out through the day?

Hello @gemsplace and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. There is quite an active discussion for those with MAC/MAI so wanted to move your post there to help you more easily connect with members like you. Your post is now here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mycobacterium-avium-complex-pulmonary-disease-macmai/?pg=756#chv4-comment-stream-header

That said, @heathert has shared about her experience with taking the big 3 and thought she may be able to come back in and connect with you as well. @america and @irene5 have has also shared about their experiences with the big 3 and may be able to share more with you.

How have you decided to start?

I take 2 capsules of Clear Lung extra Strength 3 times a day. I have for several years. Does anyone know if there any side effects? I am not aware of any. Thank you

I also am not aware of any, however it contains a number of herbs that could each potentially have side effects or interfere with other medicines.
According to the manufacturer, the capsules contain: ClearLungs Extra Strength Herbal Blend (750 mg/cap):Dong Quai root, Ophiopogon root, Poria fungal body, Chinese Asparagus root, Chinese Skullcap root, Gardenia fruit, Luo Han Guo fruit, Platycodon root, Tangerine mature peel, White Mulberry root bark, Zhejiang Fritillary bulb, Schisandra fruit, Chinese Licorice root, Availablend Bioavailability Complex Sichuan Pepper, Ginger root, Black Pepper, Habanero Pepper, Vegetable capsule, microcrystalline cellulose, silica.

The quantities do not seem to be specified (which if often typical in Chinese herbal medicines.)

When I am recommended an herbal medicine, I look up each ingredient and its potential side effects, then I look for any interaction with each medication I take. For example, here is what WebMD has to say about long term use of dong quai, which is just one ingredient: "Taking dong quai in higher doses for more than 6 months is possibly unsafe. Dong quai contains chemicals that might cause cancer." (https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-936/dong-quai)

Just something to consider when using any supplement or drug ...
Sue

Thank you for your thoughtful reply.

What is the purpose of the Clear Lung? Is it helpful?

Not sure this is still going on. I am a MAC fighter looking for any help or ideas you can pass along. On three meds three times weekly. It's a tough fight!

Sorry, not sure if your question is directed at me? If it is I was diagnosed with IPF in 2000. I was given a life expectancy of 3 to 6 months. I don't say, nor advocate that Clear Lung is what changed my life at all. However, it certainly hasn't hurt. I do notice when I don't take the supplement I experience shortness of breath. The comments from the 'mentor' was helpful and if you are taking the supplement and/or considering I'd encourage you to take her advice and talk with you primary or specialist.