A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Cayston, the brand name for aztreonam lysine, is an antibacterial medication used to improve respiratory symptoms in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Cayston works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell death and ultimately reducing bacterial load in the lungs, improving lung function, and decreasing the density of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
This medication is specifically designed for inhalation use only and is administered through a nebulizer system, allowing direct delivery to the lungs. It is commonly prescribed for individuals with cystic fibrosis who are known to have Pseudomonas aeruginosa in their respiratory secretions. Before you buy Cayston, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Cayston cost.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C13H17N5O8S2 |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Not applicable for inhalation; intravenous administration: 90% |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Aztreonam |
Elimination half-life | 1.7 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | Inhalation solution: 75 mg per vial |
Pregnancy | Use only if clearly needed and the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus (Category B by FDA) |
Brands | Cayston |
Protein binding | Low |
PubChem CID | 5742830 |
MedlinePlus | a610007 |
ChEBI | 161680 |
ATC code | J01DF01 |
DrugBank | DB00355 |
KEGG | D00240 |
Routes of administration | Inhalation |
Preparing the Dose:
Ensure the Altera Nebulizer System (or compatible nebulizer) is clean, assembled, and functioning properly.
Each dose of Cayston should be mixed with the provided saline solution just before use. Do not mix Cayston with any other medications in the nebulizer.
Administering Cayston:
Connect the nebulizer to the compressor.
Place the medication into the nebulizer cup.
Attach the mouthpiece or mask.
Turn on the compressor and breathe normally through the mouthpiece or mask until the medication is completely nebulized (approximately 2-3 minutes).
Dosage:
Cayston is typically administered three times a day, at least 4 hours apart.
A standard course of treatment is 28 days. Patients may be advised to take a 28-day break before starting the next Cayston dosage if deemed necessary by their healthcare provider.
Important Tips:
Do not swallow Cayston or inject it.
Ensure hands are clean before preparing the medication.
Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Active Ingredient: Aztreonam lysine.
Patients with a known allergy to aztreonam or any components of the formulation should not use Cayston.
Some patients may experience bronchospasm and should have a bronchodilator available if prescribed.
Patients with impaired kidney function should use Cayston with caution and under close supervision of a healthcare provider.
Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
The interaction between Cayston and live vaccines has not been well studied. Consult your healthcare provider for more information. Using Cayston in conjunction with other antibiotics may increase the risk of developing drug-resistant bacteria. Your healthcare provider will manage antibiotic use carefully. If using a bronchodilator by inhalation, use it before using Cayston to open the airways. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and treatments you are currently using to avoid potential interactions.
While Cayston is effective in treating lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:
Less common but more serious side effects may include severe allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing. If you experience any of these, seek immediate medical attention.
What is Cayston?
Cayston is a prescription antibacterial medicine aimed at improving breathing symptoms in cystic fibrosis patients who have a lung infection due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Who should not take Cayston?
Those allergic to aztreonam or any ingredients in Cayston should avoid it.
What should be discussed with healthcare providers before taking Cayston?
Inform them about all medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy or breastfeeding status, and all medications being taken.
What are Cayston's possible side effects?
Serious side effects can include severe allergic reactions and trouble breathing right after treatment (bronchospasm). Common side effects include cough, nasal congestion, wheezing, sore throat, fever, chest discomfort, stomach area pain, and vomiting.
Is financial support available for Cayston?
The Cayston Access Program offers financial assistance to uninsured or underinsured individuals struggling to afford Cayston.
How is Cayston administered?
Detailed administration instructions are provided with the prescription, emphasizing the importance of following your healthcare provider's guidance.
Can Cayston be used for infections other than Pseudomonas aeruginosa?
No, Cayston is specifically for lung infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis patients and not for other bacteria or viruses.
Is Cayston safe for all ages?
Its safety and effectiveness in children under 7 or in people with FEV1 25% or 75% predicted have not been established.
What should be done in case of an allergic reaction to Cayston?
Immediate discontinuation of Cayston and contacting a healthcare provider is advised if any symptoms of an allergic reaction occur.
How can one report side effects of Cayston?
Side effects can be reported to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.