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Azithromycin 500 mg. 3 X week for Bronchiectasis
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Feb 28, 2023 | Replies (16)Comment receiving replies
I was told the argument for using azithromycin is that it has anti-inflammatory effects and can also decrease the mucus production and prolong periods of no flairs. I don't have MAC at this point and I am 77 so the ID dr. may not be worried about the resistant MAC situation. Also I have bad kidneys and heart issues which probably wouldn't sustain that 3 antibiotic treatment regime. Who knows. There are studies that show it helps some bronchiectasis issues while those studies admit it can cause resistance. In any case, the az treatment is not an accepted treatment among experts it seems.
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Hmm, his recommendation surprises. Azithromycin can affect kidney function and worsen kidney failure (my husband is Stage 3B and they will not prescribe it.) It can also have some effects on the heart, and anyone with heart issues should make sure their cardiologist knows they are taking it.
There are other safer ways to decrease mucus and inflammation, including Singulair, guaifenesin, N-acetyl Cysteine, albuterol/levalbuterol. Airway clearance with nebulized saline and a PEP device can also help.
Only you and your doctor can decide what is best for you, but remember sub-clinical doses of a broad-spectrum antibiotic can also make other bacteria such as staph, strep & e. coli resistant to common antibiotics.
Sue