Helidac: Comprehensive Helicobacter Pylori Treatment Guide

Summary of Key Points

Helidac is a combination medication used to treat specific stomach and intestinal conditions, including peptic ulcers and infections caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). It works by reducing stomach acid and eliminating bacteria that can lead to ulcers. Helidac is typically prescribed alongside other medications to help heal the stomach lining. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Helidac

Generic Name: Bismuth subsalicylate, metronidazole, and tetracycline

The generic name refers to the active ingredients in a medication, which remain the same regardless of the brand name. In this case, the generic name is listed in parentheses.

Pharmacologic Category

Antibiotic: Metronidazole, Tetracycline

Antacid: Bismuth Subsalicylate

Antiulcer Agent

Helidac Dosing Instructions

Helidac is used to treat various conditions related to stomach ulcers and bacterial infections. Below are the recommended doses for adults. Always consult your doctor before adjusting your dose. If you need to speak with a healthcare provider, you can schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers.

1. Peptic Ulcer Disease: Take 1 dose (each dose contains 2 bismuth subsalicylate chewable tablets, 1 metronidazole tablet, and 1 tetracycline capsule) four times daily for 14 days.
2. Helicobacter Pylori Infection: Take 1 dose four times daily for 14 days, in combination with an acid-reducing medication such as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).
3. Gastritis: Take 1 dose four times daily for 14 days.
4. Duodenal Ulcer: Take 1 dose four times daily for 14 days, typically in combination with other medications to reduce stomach acid.
5. Stomach Ulcer: Take 1 dose four times daily for 14 days.
6. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Take 1 dose four times daily for 14 days, usually in combination with other medications.
7. Chronic Gastritis: Take 1 dose four times daily for 14 days.
8. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)-Induced Ulcers: Take 1 dose four times daily for 14 days.
9. Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Take 1 dose four times daily for 14 days, in combination with other medications to reduce stomach acid.
10. Functional Dyspepsia: Take 1 dose four times daily for 14 days.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Helidac is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

1. Bismuth Subsalicylate: 262.4 mg chewable tablets
2. Metronidazole: 250 mg tablets
3. Tetracycline: 500 mg capsules

Helidac Administration Instructions

Helidac should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Each dose consists of two bismuth subsalicylate chewable tablets, one metronidazole tablet, and one tetracycline capsule. These should be taken four times daily, with meals and at bedtime. Chew the bismuth subsalicylate tablets thoroughly before swallowing. Swallow the metronidazole tablet and tetracycline capsule whole with a full glass of water. Avoid lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking the medication.

It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better before finishing. Stopping the medication early can cause the infection to return or worsen. If you have any questions about how to take Helidac or need further guidance, you can schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers.

Contraindications for Helidac Therapy

A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. For Helidac, several contraindications must be considered before starting treatment. These include:

1. Allergy to any component of Helidac: If you are allergic to bismuth subsalicylate, metronidazole, tetracycline, or any other ingredients in Helidac, taking this medication could cause a severe allergic reaction, including rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
2. Pregnancy: Helidac contains tetracycline, which can harm a developing fetus, particularly affecting bone and tooth development. It is contraindicated during pregnancy.
3. Severe kidney disease: Tetracycline can accumulate in the body if the kidneys are not functioning properly, leading to toxicity. Therefore, Helidac is not recommended for patients with severe kidney impairment.
4. Severe liver disease: Metronidazole is processed by the liver, and in patients with severe liver disease, the drug may not be metabolized properly, leading to increased side effects.
5. Alcohol consumption: Metronidazole, one of the components of Helidac, can cause a severe reaction when combined with alcohol, leading to nausea, vomiting, and rapid heart rate. Patients should avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after stopping Helidac.

Drug-to-Drug Interactions with Helidac

Helidac can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of your treatment. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking. Some significant drug interactions include:

1. Warfarin (Coumadin): Taking Helidac with warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding. Your doctor may need to monitor your blood clotting more closely.
2. Phenytoin (Dilantin): Metronidazole can increase phenytoin levels in the blood, leading to toxicity. Symptoms of phenytoin toxicity include dizziness, confusion, and coordination problems.
3. Oral contraceptives (birth control pills): Tetracycline may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy. You may need to use an additional form of contraception while taking Helidac.
4. Disulfiram (Antabuse): Metronidazole should not be taken with disulfiram, as it can cause severe mental and physical reactions, including confusion and psychosis.
5. Antacids containing aluminum, calcium, or magnesium: These can interfere with the absorption of tetracycline, reducing its effectiveness. It is recommended to take Helidac at least 2 hours before or after antacids.

Helidac in Pregnancy

No, it is not safe to take Helidac during pregnancy. The tetracycline component of Helidac therapy can harm a developing fetus, particularly by affecting bone and tooth development. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider. If you are already taking Helidac and discover you are pregnant, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss the next steps.

Helidac while Breastfeeding

Helidac is not recommended while breastfeeding. Tetracycline can pass into breast milk and may interfere with a nursing infant’s bone and tooth development. Additionally, metronidazole can also be transferred through breast milk and may cause side effects in the baby. If you are breastfeeding, it is essential to discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider. You may need to stop breastfeeding or switch to a different medication.

Estimated Cost of Helidac Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Helidac without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, ranges from approximately $500 to $600. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location. It is always a good idea to check for discounts or coupons that may help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

Possible Alternatives to Helidac

If Helidac is not suitable for you, there are alternative treatments and lifestyle changes that may help manage the conditions it is prescribed for. Always discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to explore your options.

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Alternatives include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole (Prilosec) or H2 blockers such as famotidine (Pepcid). Lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, avoiding NSAIDs, and quitting smoking, may also contribute to symptom relief.

Helicobacter Pylori Infection

Other antibiotic regimens, such as a combination of amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and a PPI, may be used. Your healthcare provider will determine the most effective combination for you to ensure successful H. pylori eradication.

Gastritis

Treatment options include antacids, PPIs, or H2 blockers. Avoiding irritants like alcohol, spicy foods, and NSAIDs can also help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

Duodenal Ulcer

PPIs and H2 blockers are commonly prescribed. Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and NSAIDs can help prevent recurrence and promote healing.

Stomach Ulcer

Similar to duodenal ulcers, PPIs and H2 blockers are effective treatments. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol intake and managing stress, can also support recovery and prevent future ulcers.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

PPIs and H2 blockers are the first-line treatments for GERD. Lifestyle modifications, such as eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, and elevating the head of the bed, can also help alleviate symptoms.

Chronic Gastritis

Treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include PPIs, antibiotics for H. pylori, and avoiding irritants like alcohol and NSAIDs.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)-Induced Ulcers

Discontinuing NSAIDs and using PPIs or H2 blockers can help heal the ulcer. Your healthcare provider may also recommend switching to a different pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), to avoid further irritation.

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome

High-dose PPIs are often used to control excessive stomach acid production. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove gastrin-secreting tumors.

Functional Dyspepsia

Treatment may include PPIs, H2 blockers, or prokinetics. Lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals and avoiding fatty or spicy foods, can also help manage symptoms effectively.

Recent Updates on Helidac Research

Recent studies on Helidac have focused on improving the effectiveness of treatment for Helicobacter pylori infections. Researchers are exploring new combinations of antibiotics and acid-suppressing medications to combat the growing issue of antibiotic resistance. Additionally, ongoing research into the development of vaccines for H. pylori holds promise for reducing the need for antibiotic treatments like Helidac in the future. While no major changes have been made to standard treatment protocols at this time, it is important for patients to stay informed and discuss any new research with their healthcare provider.

James Kingsley

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