Starting"Big 3": Anyone take Zofran (ondansetron) for nausea?
After a lifetime of frequent respiratory infections, I was recently (finally) diagnosed with MAC. But that's not all! During some lab tests it was determined that I also have Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and very low IgM levels.
Don't worry if you haven't heard of these... most people (including doctors) haven't either. The Alpha-1 is a genetic disorder that I obtained from my parents. They must both have been carriers, and I inherited that gene. It means I have always had a very weak immune system that has resulted in multiple infections. Because of that (doctors think), I developed bronchiectasis along the way too. Low Alpha-1 (some people have none) can be improved by receiving infusions of immunoglobins to increase the levels. However, that happens twice a week indefinitely! IgM is the first line of defense when infections occur in the body. My low levels have prevented me from fighting off much of anything! There's nothing that can be done to treat low IgM.
After getting these results, my pulmonologist immediately referred me to the ID doctor. I'm very confident in his abilities and glad I'm working with him. He told me that in his many years of practice, he's never had a patient with MAC and Alpha-1, let alone with MAC, Alpha-1 and low IgM!!
All of that being said, I don't have many symptoms. I've had a chronic cough forever, but have stayed relatively healthy during Covid. I'm very active with volunteer work and helping out a lot with my grandsons. I've had numerous discussions with my ID doctor about the risks/benefits of beginning the MAC treatment, I've finally decided to do so.
Thank you if you've read all of this so far! I've been reading all of your comments as I've been deciding whether to begin treatment. I'll keep you posted on my success with the meds. One quick question - does anyone take or need to take Zofran (ondansetron) for nausea? My doctor prescribed it when he prescribed the other three meds.
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Partner taking Zofran 30-60 mins after taking Nuzyra, but the nausea is still terrible. Doc recommended taking Zofran an hour before Nuzyra… starting this weekend. Nuzyra can be brutal. (NTM-A). If that doesn’t help we may try taking it with a little flat cola as @jeannie55 suggested.
I have taken zofran in the past and it worked like magic for me. My electrophysiologist warned me that it could cause a-fib so just use it when I really needed it. My daughter uses it as well and hasn’t had any issues.
Zofran is recommended 20 to 30 minutes before Nuzyra which has worked for me. Also helps to stay upright for 45-60 minutes after dose. I try to sit quietly and read for distraction. I also have gerd so sitting upright or standing for a period of time works for me. Good luck.