the itching etc sure sounds like side effects to me!

I do have bronchiectasis.

I had no itching or red cheeks while on the meds. I’ve had sinus issues (thick secretions, post nasal discharge/sinusitis) since being on the medications and these did not go away when I stopped the meds. The ENT attributed sinus problems to inflammation in my lungs and therefore entire respiratory system; he suggested nasal steroids which I used until I started getting nosebleeds. I gave up trying to figure this out but it seems to have gotten a bit better over the years.

It’s a tough call when your doctor advises a course of treatment and you get side effects or concerns about whether the medication is doing what it is supposed to do. I needed to find a doctor who specialized in NTM and I am so grateful that there was one near me. The big 3 did nothing to reduce my (mac) bacteria count or prevent me from getting worse. Some people on this forum suggest getting a second opinion/ seeing someone who specializes in NTM but that isn’t always easy. My first respirologist refused to refer me for a second opinion but fortunately my family doctor did and fortunately the specialist kept me as a patient. It worked well for me but that’s a decision you have to make. I wish you courage and a bit of luck navigating the health care system when it comes to dealing with this disease