MAC (Mycobacterium avium complex) infections are a real concern for people with RA, especially since RA itself and many RA medications can suppress the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.
When it comes to taking antibiotics for an infection while on RA medications like methotrexate or other DMARDs, the Show Full Answer
MAC (Mycobacterium avium complex) infections are a real concern for people with RA, especially since RA itself and many RA medications can suppress the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.
When it comes to taking antibiotics for an infection while on RA medications like methotrexate or other DMARDs, the short answer is: yes, but with close coordination with your doctors.
Here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Let your rheumatologist know about any infection and any antibiotics being prescribed right away
- Your rheumatologist may temporarily pause your DMARD (like methotrexate) while you're on antibiotics, to give your immune system a better chance to fight the infection
- Make sure whoever is prescribing your antibiotics knows about your RA diagnosis and all current medications
- Always complete the full course of antibiotics as directed, even if you start feeling better — stopping early can lead to antibiotic resistance
The key here is communication between all your doctors. No one should be making changes to your RA treatment plan without your rheumatologist's input.
Reaching out to your rheumatologist as soon as possible is strongly recommended if you haven't already.
September 1
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