How Do H. Pylori Agents Work?

H pylori agents are a class of medications used for treating Helicobacter pylori that causes:

• Peptic ulcer disease (gastric and duodenal)
• Chronic gastritis
• Upper gastrointestinal diseases
• Gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma

Helicobacter pylori are spiral-shaped bacteria that grow in the inner lining of the stomach. To survive the harsh, acidic environment of the stomach, H pylori secrete an enzyme called urease, which is responsible for converting the chemical urea into ammonia. Ammonia is responsible for neutralizing the acidity in the stomach. Besides, the immune cells accumulate near sites of H pylori infection, and they are unable to reach the stomach lining.

H pylori agents involve a combination of antibacterial and antisecretory agents. Antimicrobial agents eliminate the Helicobacter pylori, whereas antisecretory agents reduce the acid production from the stomach. Thus, the tissue damaged because of the infection has time to heal.

H pylori agents are mainly administered orally and used to treat:

• Duodenal ulcer
• Helicobacter pylori infection
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Upset stomach
• Indigestion
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Traveler's diarrhea

The side effects of H pylori agents include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Black, tarry stool
• Constipation
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Pain
• Insomnia
• Discolored tongue
• Indigestion
• Acne
• Rash
• Itching
• Dry mouth
• Urinary tract infection
• Gray-black stool
• Depression
• Anxiety

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of H pylori drugs include:

• Amoxicillin/omeprazole/rifabutin
• Bismuth subcitrate potassium/metronidazole/tetracycline hydrochloride
• Bismuth subsalicylate
• Bismuth/metronidazole/tetracycline
• Kaopectate
• Kaopectate extra strength
• Lansoprazole/amoxicillin/clarithromycin
• Maalox total relief
• Omeclamox-pak
• Omeprazole/amoxicillin/clarithromycin
• Pepto bismol
• Pepto-bismol maximum strength
• Prevpac
• Pylera
• Talicia