Cayston

The usual dose of aztreonam for adults and children 6 years and older is 75 mg (the contents of 1 vial) taken by inhalation 3 times a day for 28 days. The dose is not based on weight or age, as very little of the medication is absorbed into the body. Doses should be taken at least 4 hours apart.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.

Aztreonam for inhalation should be given using only the specific nebulizer device (Altera Nebulizer System) created for Cayston. To prepare a dose, take 1 glass vial of the powdered medication and remove the rubber stopper to open it. Add the contents of 1 ampule of the diluent (1 mL) to the glass vial, replace the rubber stopper and gently swirl the vial until the medication dissolves.

The solution should be clear and have no particles. If it is cloudy, or there are particles in the liquid, discard the vial and use a new one. Use the dose immediately after reconstitution.

To take the dose, pour the reconstituted medication into the nebulizer handset and turn the unit on. Place the mouthpiece of the handset in your mouth and breathe normally, through your mouth only. It will take 2 or 3 minutes to complete the entire dose. Clean and disinfect the device as directed in the instructions for using the nebulizer.

Before using a dose of aztreonam, use your bronchodilator to let the aztreonam get as far into your lungs as possible. If you are using several medications, use them in the order of bronchodilator, mucolytic (medication to loosen the mucus in the lung), and aztreonam.

It is important to use Cayston exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is within 4 hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store Cayston and the diluent in the refrigerator and keep it out of the reach of children. If necessary, aztreonam may be stored at room temperature for up to 28 days. After 28 days, any remaining medication must be discarded. Do not return it to the refrigerator to reuse. Reconstituted medication should not be stored and should be used immediately after reconstitution.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.