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(MAC/MAI) Mycobacterium Avium Complex Pulmonary Disease: Join us
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Oct 29 5:15pm | Replies (9350)Comment receiving replies
MacInPA....just asking if what I'm taking is standard for MAC.
Azithromycin 500 MG - 1 tablet a day with small meal
Ethambutol HCL 400 MG - take 2 tablets a day with or without food
Rifampin 300 MG Capsule - take 2 twice a day
I have discovered that "Capsules" themselves bother my esophagus and stomach. I was told that I can take the medicine out of the capsule and mix it with food.
Due to such side effects with starting all the Big 3 at once, my doctor as agreed to just starting again with one at a time for a week. Then, adding the second one the next week, third one the third week.
Do others find it easier to take them at night one hours before bedtime? I may try that, too.
Replies to "MacInPA....just asking if what I'm taking is standard for MAC. Azithromycin 500 MG - 1 tablet..."
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Hello - I see you seem to be starting with the Big 3 on a daily regimen. The most usual beginning prescription is 3 times weekly. Did the doctor explain why it is being prescribed daily?
As for when to take, after 2 weeks of nausea and extreme discomfort, I talked frankly to my pulmonologist's nurse and told her there was NO way I could stay on treatment long term feeling so sick. She had me try the bedtime routine, and it worked for me as I was able to sleep (somewhat poorly) through the worst symptoms.
I managed to keep going for 18 months, 12 months 3X weekly, then 6 months daily - long enough to knock Mr. MAC way down, but not entirely out. I now manage with mucus thinners, asthma meds, 7% saline and airway clearance.
I really think the practice of starting the drugs one at a time is a good one.
Is this your first time on the Big 3?
Sue