I got a new LLMD and the doctor wants me to start with rifmapn with doxy and tinidazole to be added onto that.
He suspects bartonella based on my years of symptoms and attempts to treat parisites and lyme.
A few things I was wondering-
1) My lipase has shown to be a little high and I've seen online that in some cases rifmapn has caused people pancreas issues. I've gotten ultrasounds that have shown no issues with my pancreas but basically should I be concerned about this medicine because of my elevated lipase levels? Is there any alternative?
2) Is it possible to have bart that never shows up on tests? Also to add some more info certain blood levels have shown high inflammation which I think the doctor also think clues at bart.
3)If I do take it how hard is this drug to handle? Mthe doctor said I could start with one dose a day to see how I tolerate it?
4)How long into treatment would you recommend checking liver enzymes to make sure they don't boost them too high?
Any insight would really help.
Thanks!
Posts: 135 | From USA | Registered: Jun 2014
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Rifampin was one of the drugs that helped me turn the corner with Bart. I had my blood work monitored 1x per month.
I would say if your doctor thinks it is safe to try it, I would. I do remember flaring but not that it was anything really other than a godsend in the scheme of things. My neuropathy tended to react well (decrease) with it. Actually I believe I was on mino with Rifampin and some tin for months. It was definitely a good combo for me. Bart can be tenacious so it sometimes takes bigger guns I think to get it.
I would just keep a close eye on it - blood work wise. I had no issues. Again, this is only one person's experience, I am no doctor and your doctor should be guiding you. Hang in there.... The way out is through!
Posts: 859 | From Southeast | Registered: Mar 2011
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Thanks! My doctor does seem to think it's a good drug for me to try so I will likely give it a shot. He also said I could start at one dose a day to see how I react to it so I guess that could help for starting too. Cheers
Posts: 135 | From USA | Registered: Jun 2014
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Absolutely! Rifampin was a winner for me and honestly I remember the deep maroon color of the pill with fondness as it helped defeat Bart for me and especially helped with the neuropathy. I remember vividly the phone consult with Dr.H and I told him of the Bart symptoms -namely foot pain and neuropathy and he said we need to do the rifampin combo and darn if he didn't call it exactly. Hang in there! You'll beat this! Posts: 859 | From Southeast | Registered: Mar 2011
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