LymeNet Flash: How do you manage IV abx with an out of state LLMD?

This is topic How do you manage IV abx with an out of state LLMD? in forum Medical Questions at LymeNet Flash.

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Posted by SashaC (Member # 18968) on :

At my last visit, my LLMD "strongly suggested" that I begin IV abx. However, I fly 2 1/2 hours to see him.
How does this work? Do I find an MD in my home state to put in a PICC line?
He didn't explain much of it to me. I don't understand how he could manage my treatment from so far away. What if I have a bad reaction to the meds?
If anyone has had an IV from an LLMD who is far away from you, how did you do it? Should I get an apartment in his city?
I'm confused as to how having an LLMD in a different state can work with IV meds [confused]

Posted by TF (Member # 14183) on :

Many people fly to see their lyme doc and also have IV antibiotics. As I understand it, the doc writes a prescription for a PICC line. You go to a local hospital and have it put in as an outpatient. It is quick.

Then, an infusion company comes to your home and brings you all the supplies you need and teaches you what to do to give yourself the infusion. They come once per week to check everything, change your dressing and be sure the PICC looks fine (no signs of infection).

The infusion company can answer all your questions about the IV part.

You get prescriptions from your doc for the meds to be put into the IV. You can fill the prescription at your pharmacy or give it to the infusion company to fill for you.

I believe the infusion company does the first IV for you. So, they will be there if you have a bad reaction. You also call your lyme doc if you have any bad reactions to the IV just as with any other meds he gives you.

If you are ever worried about your PICC, you can always go to the hospital to have it checked immediately. If they determine it is infected, they will remove it for you.

So, if your lyme doc believes you need IV meds, I think you should do it.

Posted by SashaC (Member # 18968) on :

Thanks, TF. It sounds easier than I thought. He wants me to start IV primaxin. I'll give him a call tomorrow and get the wheels turning!

Posted by lymeboy (Member # 24769) on :

an IV is much less scary once you have it. You have to keep it clean, and refrain from being rough on it. It can be annoying and cumbersome, but it really is not much of a problem. The home nurses are usually really nice, and if anything goes wrong, you can call them, they'll come right out to you. Good luck.

Posted by rosebuds mom (Member # 17435) on :

What do you do when insurance won't cover out of state prescriptions for IV?