Managing Antibiotic Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori Infections

Antibiotics for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori?

Hello Doctor, I have a troubling question to ask.
The hospital prescribed me a 7-day course of medication: Amoxicillin 500 mg (2 capsules twice a day for 7 days), Clarithromycin 500 mg (1 capsule twice a day for 7 days), and Lansoprazole 30 mg (1 capsule twice a day for 7 days).
Due to my carelessness, I didn't carefully read the instructions on the medication bag, and for the first four days, I only took 1 capsule of Amoxicillin 500 mg each time.
After realizing this, I started taking 2 capsules each time from the fifth to the seventh day.
I feel quite upset about this! After the 7 days, I still have some Amoxicillin 500 mg left.
Should I continue taking the remaining Amoxicillin 500 mg as prescribed, which is 2 capsules twice a day until it's finished, or should I stop taking it? Thank you.

Mr. Chen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/17

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
Whether you eat or not has already reduced the success rate.
You may consider returning for an earlier consultation with your physician to discuss remedial options (such as purchasing medication out-of-pocket to complete the 7-day course).
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2017/10/17

More Info

When managing antibiotic treatment for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections, it is essential to adhere to the prescribed regimen to maximize the chances of successful eradication. In your case, you were prescribed a 7-day treatment course that included Amoxicillin, Clarithromycin, and a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) such as Lansoprazole.
From your description, it appears that you inadvertently took only one capsule of Amoxicillin instead of the prescribed two capsules for the first four days. This could potentially reduce the effectiveness of the treatment, as the dosage is crucial in ensuring that the bacteria are adequately suppressed and eradicated.
After realizing the mistake, you increased your dosage of Amoxicillin to the correct amount for the remaining three days. However, you are now left with some extra Amoxicillin after completing the initial 7-day course. The question arises whether you should continue taking the remaining Amoxicillin or stop altogether.

In general, it is not advisable to self-adjust antibiotic dosages without consulting your healthcare provider. The effectiveness of the treatment can be compromised if the antibiotic is not taken as prescribed. In your case, since you have already deviated from the prescribed regimen, it would be best to consult your physician regarding the remaining Amoxicillin. They may recommend finishing the remaining doses or suggest a follow-up evaluation to determine if further treatment is necessary.

In addition to medication adherence, it is also important to monitor for any side effects or adverse reactions during the treatment. Common side effects of the antibiotics used for H. pylori treatment may include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If you experience severe side effects, such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, or signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling), you should seek medical attention immediately.

Furthermore, after completing the treatment, it is advisable to have a follow-up test to confirm whether the H. pylori infection has been successfully eradicated. This is typically done through a breath test, stool antigen test, or endoscopy with biopsy.
In summary, while it is understandable to feel concerned about the missed doses of Amoxicillin, the best course of action is to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can guide you on whether to complete the remaining medication and discuss any further steps needed to ensure the successful treatment of your H. pylori infection. Remember, effective communication with your healthcare provider is key to managing your treatment effectively.

Similar Q&A

Effective Treatment for Stomach Pain Caused by H. Pylori Infection

If you have stomach pain caused by Helicobacter pylori, the treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medications. The standard regimen usually includes: 1. Two different antibiotics (such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin) to eradicate the bact...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Internal Medicine
In Taiwan, studies show that approximately 50-60% of people are infected with Helicobacter pylori, but only a few require treatment, such as: 1. Ulcers confirmed by gastroscopy 2. Specific gastric lymphoma 3. Other cases (where health insurance does not cover the medication costs...

Do You Really Need Antibiotics for Helicobacter Pylori? Alternatives Explored

Last week, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and the doctor mentioned that I have a slight presence of Helicobacter pylori. They prescribed a week-long course of antibiotics, but I am very afraid of taking medication and tend to vomit whenever I do. I would like to...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Helicobacter pylori is associated with chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative bacterium, and to eradicate the bacteria, antibiotics are required. Currently, the first-line treatment prescribed by physicians consists of two ant...

Effective Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori: A Comprehensive Guide

If the doctor has diagnosed you with Helicobacter pylori after an endoscopy and prescribed a treatment regimen for two weeks, the medications listed are commonly used for this purpose. The prescribed medications are: - Metronidazole 250 mg/tablet, to be taken twice daily, three ...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It should be a reasonable 4-in-1 treatment. However, I personally have no experience with it and mostly use 3-in-1 treatment.

Managing Helicobacter Pylori Treatment for Duodenal Ulcer Recurrence

Hello, Doctor. Twelve years ago, I had a duodenal ulcer, and about five or six years ago, it recurred. I was found to have Helicobacter pylori and was treated with antibiotics, but it was not confirmed whether the infection was completely eradicated. Recently, the ulcer has recur...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, sir: You may discuss with your physician or obtain copies of your recent examination reports before visiting a large hospital or gastroenterology outpatient clinic for comprehensive treatment. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian