WARNING

Arikayce is an antibiotic used to treat lung infections caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) in people with advanced lung disease. While it can be effective, there are some risks associated with its use:

• Lung Issues: It can cause or worsen lung problems, such as bronchospasm or coughing.
• Hearing Loss: As with other aminoglycoside antibiotics, there’s a risk of hearing loss or balance issues.
• Kidney Damage: There may be potential for kidney toxicity.
• Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions, including rash or swelling.
• Drug Interactions: It might interact with other medications, so it’s important to discuss all current medications with a healthcare provider.

Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare provider are crucial to manage these risks effectively.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Arikayce is prescribed to treat lung infections caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) in patients with advanced lung disease, such as cystic fibrosis. It’s specifically used when these infections do not respond to other treatments or when conventional antibiotics are not effective.

How should this medicine be used?

How Arikayce Should Be Used:

• Administration: Arikayce is administered via inhalation using a specific nebulizer device. It is not meant to be taken orally or injected.
• Dosage: The usual dosage is one vial of Arikayce (590 mg) inhaled once daily. The exact dosage and schedule should be followed as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Preparation: The medication should be prepared and used according to the instructions provided with the nebulizer and the medication. Typically, the medication is placed into the nebulizer chamber and inhaled through the mouthpiece or mask.
• Cleaning: Proper cleaning and maintenance of the nebulizer device are essential to avoid contamination and ensure effective delivery of the medication.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important to monitor for side effects and assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for the proper use of Arikayce and consult them if you have any questions or concerns.

Other uses for this medicine

Arikayce is specifically indicated for treating lung infections caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) in patients with advanced lung disease. Its use is quite specialized and primarily focused on this condition. It is not typically used for other types of infections or conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Arikayce:

• Preexisting Lung Conditions: If you have other lung conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), inform your healthcare provider. Arikayce may exacerbate these conditions.
• Monitor Hearing: Because Arikayce is an aminoglycoside antibiotic, it may pose a risk of hearing loss or balance issues. Regular monitoring of hearing and balance may be required.
• Renal Monitoring: Monitor kidney function regularly, as aminoglycosides can potentially cause kidney toxicity.
• Report Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any history of allergic reactions to medications. Report any signs of allergic reactions immediately.
• Discuss Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Nebulizer Hygiene: Maintain proper hygiene of the nebulizer device to prevent infections.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Arikayce with your healthcare provider.
• Report Side Effects: Watch for any unusual symptoms or side effects and report them to your healthcare provider promptly.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and discuss any concerns or conditions that might affect the use of Arikayce.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Arikayce. However, maintaining a balanced diet can support overall health and help manage any side effects. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding diet if you have any specific health concerns or conditions.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you remember the missed dose within a few hours of your regular dosing time, take it as soon as possible. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Contact your healthcare provider for guidance on what to do if you miss a dose, especially if you are unsure about timing or if you miss multiple doses.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Arikayce can cause several side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Cough: Persistent coughing is a common side effect.
• Throat Irritation: Sore throat or throat irritation may occur.
• Shortness of Breath: Some patients may experience difficulty breathing.
• Chest Pain: Mild chest discomfort or pain may be reported.
• Fever: A mild fever might occur.

Serious Side Effects:

• Hearing Loss: Aminoglycosides like Arikayce can cause hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
• Kidney Problems: Risk of kidney toxicity, indicated by symptoms like swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet.
• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions may include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Respiratory Issues: Severe difficulty breathing or bronchospasm.
• Infection Risk: There’s a risk of respiratory infections if the nebulizer is not properly cleaned.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Some people may experience nausea or vomiting.

If you experience any severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. For persistent or bothersome symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Arikayce:

Storage:

• Store Arikayce vials in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
• Keep the vials in their original packaging to protect them from light.

Disposal:

• Dispose of any unused or expired Arikayce vials as directed by your pharmacist or according to local disposal regulations. Do not flush down the toilet or pour into drains unless instructed.
• Dispose of any leftover medication in the nebulizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact a Healthcare Provider: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
• Call Poison Control: For emergencies related to overdose, you can also call your local poison control center for advice.
• Overdose Symptoms: Signs may include ringing in the ears or sudden hearing loss. Symptoms like severe swelling in extremities, changes in urine output, or unusual tiredness.

What other information should I know?

• Nebulizer Maintenance: Ensure proper cleaning of the nebulizer device to prevent infections. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor effectiveness and manage side effects.
• Medication Interactions: Always inform your healthcare provider about other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Report Issues: Report any side effects or unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the use of Arikayce with your healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks.
• Patient Information: Review any educational materials provided with Arikayce to ensure proper usage and understanding of the medication.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the information provided with the medication for safe and effective use.