About Arikayce: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects
What exactly is Arikayce?
Arikayce is an antibiotic known as an aminoglycoside. It contains amikacin, the active component. Arikayce is a medication used to treat a lung infection caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC). Arikayce is prescribed to individuals who have MAC in their sputum (mucus) despite having tried other antibiotics for at least 6 months. Arikayce is used in combination with other antibiotics as part of a treatment plan.
How do you use Arikayce?
Arikayce is a liquid solution that is inhaled into the lungs via a device known as the Lamira Nebulizer System. Arikayce should be used once a day, at the same time every day. You must follow the directions for preparing, using, and cleaning the nebulizer. Arikayce should not be used with any other medications or liquids in the nebulizer. Arikayce should not be swallowed or injected. To avoid fungal infections in your mouth, rinse your mouth with water after each usage.
What is the Arikayce dosage?
Adults should take Arikayce once day by inhaling the contents of one 590 mg/8.4 mL Arikayce vial (590 mg of amikacin) using the Lamira Nebulizer System. You should not change your dose or discontinue Arikayce without first checking with your doctor. If you have asthma, COPD, or bronchospasm, you should additionally use a bronchodilator inhaler before taking Arikayce. You should keep track of your sputum cultures and notify your doctor if anything changes. Seek medical assistance if your health worsens or if you develop signs of infection, such as a fever, chills, or cough.
What are Arikayce's possible adverse effects?
Arikayce may produce the following adverse effects:
- Cough Hoarseness
- Fever with a sore throat
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight reduction
- Rash
Some of the side effects may be severe and necessitate medical treatment, such as:
- Allergic responses (rash, hives, edoema, breathing difficulties)
- spitting up blood
- Breathing difficulties (wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath)
- Damage to the ears (hearing loss, ringing in the ears, dizziness)
- Kidney injury (low urine production, edoema, and weariness)
If you encounter any negative effects while using Arikayce, please notify your doctor. You should also tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, vitamins, or supplements, since these may interfere with Arikayce. If you are allergic to amikacin or any other aminoglycoside, you should not use Arikayce. If you have any medical illnesses, such as asthma, COPD, kidney problems, hearing problems, or neuromuscular disorders, you should also inform your doctor.
Summary
Arikayce is a prescription medication that can help you battle MAC lung infection if other antibiotics haven't worked. It is not, however, a cure for MAC, and you should continue to take your other antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor. You should not discontinue Arikayce without first visiting your doctor, since this may worsen your infection. Arikayce should be taken exactly as prescribed, and any negative effects should be reported to your doctor.
