How is Helicobacter pylori infection treated?

H. pylori can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to [Gastritis](/conditions/gastritis/) or a [Peptic Ulcer](/conditions/peptic-ulcer/). Treatment uses more than one antibiotic together with a medicine that reduces stomach acid, helping the antibiotics work and allowing irritation to settle. The exact combination depends on previous antibiotic exposure, allergies, local prescribing practice and test results. A clinician may call this eradication treatment.

Take every medicine for the prescribed duration, even if pain or bloating improves sooner. Ask what to do if you miss a dose and report rash, breathing difficulty, severe diarrhoea or other worrying reactions. Tell the prescriber about allergies, pregnancy, other medicines and previous antibiotic courses. A follow-up breath, stool or other test is usually arranged after treatment, with timing chosen so the result is meaningful.

Seek urgent help for vomiting blood, black stools, fainting, severe or worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting or marked weakness. These symptoms can signal bleeding or another serious problem and should not be attributed to H. pylori without assessment. Arrange review if symptoms continue after treatment or the follow-up test remains positive.

Ask which medicines you will take, how they interact with your regular treatments, and when to complete the follow-up test. Ask whether ongoing [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/) needs another explanation and what symptoms should bring you back sooner.