What is the first treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection?

H. pylori can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to gastritis or ulcers. Treatment commonly uses more than one antibiotic together with medicine that reduces stomach acid, helping the antibiotics work and allowing irritated tissue to heal. The exact combination depends on allergies, previous antibiotic exposure, local prescribing practice and whether testing has confirmed infection. A breath test may be used to check for the infection or to confirm that treatment worked.

Take every prescribed dose for the full course, even if stomach discomfort improves early. Ask before using extra acid-reflux medication, painkillers or supplements because some products can interact or worsen stomach irritation. Tell the prescriber about antibiotic allergies, pregnancy, previous H. pylori treatment and medicines you already take. A follow-up H. pylori breath test may be planned after treatment, with timing chosen by your clinician.

Seek urgent care for vomiting blood, black tarry stools, severe or sudden abdominal pain, fainting, repeated vomiting or trouble swallowing. During antibiotic treatment, get immediate help for facial swelling, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Contact the prescriber if severe diarrhoea, a widespread rash or persistent vomiting makes it difficult to continue the medicines.

Ask which medicines are included, how to space them around meals, what side effects need attention, whether a breath test is required afterward, and whether an upper endoscopy is appropriate for your symptoms.