TRIPLE THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI INFECTION AND ITS EFFECTS ON GASTRIC AND DUODENAL DISORDERS

Abstract

The discovery of Helicobacter pylori has revolutionized the pathophysiological and clinical approach to diseases of the foregut, especially gastritis, gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer. Only 20 years ago the presence of H. pylori was unsuspected, but now it is known to be probably the commonest chronic human infection in the world and is associated with some of the most prevalent gastro-duodenal diseases. There is now considerable evidence that Helicobacter pylori eradication not only heals duodenal ulcer, . but also prevents ulcer recurrences and probably ulcer complication. It is, therefore, universally accepted that, all patients with duodenal ulcer disease should receive eradication therapy. The association between Helicobacter pylori and gastric and duodenal ulcer disease has presented new opportunities for the treatment of these disorders. Long-term suppression of acid secretion with H2 RA or PPis will keep patients in remission for as long as treatment is maintained but recurrence of symptoms occurs when treatment is withdrawn.