Pharmacotherapy for nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease

Abstract

Purpose: To provide an updated review of the diagnosis and pharmacotherapy of nontuberculous mycobacteria pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) and summarize guideline recommendations for an interdisciplinary treatment approach.

Summary: A systemic approach was taken in which all articles in English in MEDLINE and PubMed were reviewed. The US National Library of Medicine's DailyMed database was used to assess drug package inserts. Analysis of NTM treatment guidelines is summarized in the article with a focus on medications, dosing, interactions, and medication monitoring.

Conclusion: It is critical to manage patients with NTM with a multidisciplinary team approach. Treatment is prolonged and expensive, and the potential for drug toxicity, adverse effects, and drug interactions requires monitoring. Clinical pharmacists play a role in the management of NTM.

Keywords: Mycobacterium abscessus; Mycobacterium avium; Mycobacterium xenopi; NTM; inhaled amikacin; nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease.