Patient Education

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Amikacin Inhalation Suspension (AMIKACIN LIPOSOMAL - INHALATION)

Instructions

The liquid should be milky in appearance.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Keep this medicine in the refrigerator.

This medicine may be stored at room temperature for up to 28 days.

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

This medicine must be used with a machine called a "nebulizer." This changes medicine into a mist you can breathe in. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist which nebulizer will work with your medicine.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

Take the medicine out of the refrigerator at least 45 minutes before use to warm to room temperature.

Shake the medicine well for at least 10 to 15 seconds before each use to make sure the medicine is well mixed.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.

Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to show you how to clean the nebulizer to prevent infections.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Brand Name(s): Arikayce

Generic Name: Amikacin Liposomal

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

If this medicine causes more wheezing or makes it harder to breathe, stop the medicine. Get medical help right away.

If you have any trouble using the medicine, please tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • headaches
  • hoarseness or throat irritation
  • joint or muscle pain
  • nausea
  • change in sound of voice
  • weight loss

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • coughing
  • cough up blood
  • dizziness
  • fever
  • hearing changes or loss of hearing
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • temporary ringing in the ears
  • wheezing or difficulty breathing

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.