Managing pneumonia with myasthenia gravis (MG) requires extra care because certain antibiotics can actually worsen MG symptoms or even trigger a myasthenic crisis. This makes it really important that all your healthcare providers know about your MG diagnosis before prescribing anything.
Antibiotics that should be avoided Show Full Answer
Managing pneumonia with myasthenia gravis (MG) requires extra care because certain antibiotics can actually worsen MG symptoms or even trigger a myasthenic crisis. This makes it really important that all your healthcare providers know about your MG diagnosis before prescribing anything.
Antibiotics that should be avoided or used with great caution include:
- Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin)
- Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin)
- Aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin)
- Telithromycin Your doctor will need to carefully choose an antibiotic that is safer for MG. The specific antibiotic prescribed will depend on the type of pneumonia and its severity, so this is a conversation best had directly with your neurologist and treating physician together.
It's also worth knowing that between 16% and 41% of people with MG develop pneumonia at some point, so you're not alone in navigating this. Always make sure your pharmacist is also aware of your MG diagnosis to help catch any risky interactions.
August 19
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