Pylera Medication Profile: An In-depth Guide

Names of Medication

The medication is known in the US as Pylera. It comprises three active ingredients, Bismuth subcitrate potassium, Metronidazole, and Tetracycline hydrochloride.

Pharmacologic Category

Pylera belongs to the pharmacologic category of drugs known as antibiotics, specifically:
Bismuth subcitrate potassium – bismuth salt
Metronidazole – nitroimidazole antibiotic
Tetracycline hydrochloride – tetracycline antibiotic
Other medications in these categories include Clarithromycin (Biaxin) and Amoxicillin (Amoxil) for tetracycline and nitroimidazole antibiotics respectively.

Dosing

Pylera is used in the treatment of:
Helicobacter pylori Infection: The standard dose for adults is three capsules taken four times daily (after meals and at bedtime) for ten days.
Peptic Ulcer Disease: The same dosing regimen is used as for Helicobacter pylori infection.
Remember, it’s crucial to never adjust the dose of your medication without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Pylera comes in the form of a capsule. Each capsule contains 140 mg of Bismuth subcitrate potassium, 125 mg of Metronidazole, and 125 mg of Tetracycline hydrochloride.

Administration Instructions

Pylera should be taken after meals and at bedtime, with a full glass of water. It’s important not to chew or break the capsules. If you have difficulty swallowing, contact your healthcare provider.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Pylera may cause several side effects. Some of these include:
Darkening of the Tongue and/or Black Stool (<5%): This is a harmless side effect caused by the bismuth in Pylera. The dark color should disappear once the medication is discontinued. Nausea (8%): This can be due to the body adjusting to the medication. It's usually temporary but if it persists or becomes severe, seek medical attention. Diarrhea (5%): This could be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, stop taking Pylera and call your doctor.
Abdominal Pain (3%): This is typically mild and temporary. If the pain becomes severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider.
Headache (3%): This side effect can occur as your body adjusts to the drug. It’s usually temporary and mild.

Contraindications to Taking Pylera

Contraindications refer to situations where a medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. For Pylera, these include:
Allergic Reaction: If you have a history of allergic reaction to any of the components in Pylera, using it could lead to a serious allergic reaction.
Renal Impairment: Metronidazole and Tetracycline are both substantially excreted by the kidneys, and the risk of toxic reactions to these drugs may be greater in patients with impaired renal function.
Pregnancy: Pylera is contraindicated in pregnant women because of potential adverse effects on the developing fetus.
Breastfeeding: Tetracycline, one of the components of Pylera, is found in breast milk and may affect the infant’s bone and tooth development.
Children: Pylera is not recommended for use in children due to the risk of permanent discoloration of the teeth.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Certain medications can interact with Pylera, altering its effectiveness or increasing side effects. These include:
Anticoagulants (Warfarin/Coumadin): Metronidazole can potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Alcohol or products containing propylene glycol (e.g., certain soft drinks): These can interact with metronidazole causing a disulfiram-like reaction, which can include severe nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
Antacids (Tums, Mylanta): These can interfere with the absorption of tetracycline, reducing its effectiveness.
Oral Contraceptives: Tetracycline may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, so an alternative or additional form of birth control may be necessary.

Pylera in Pregnancy

Pylera is classified as Pregnancy Category D. This means there is positive evidence of human fetal risk, but the potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Pylera While Breastfeeding

Tetracycline, a component of Pylera, can be found in breast milk and may affect bone and tooth development in a nursing infant. Therefore, use of this medication is not recommended while breastfeeding.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The cost of a 10-day supply of Pylera (120 capsules), without insurance and using a GoodRx coupon, is approximately $600 – $700. However, prices can vary depending on the pharmacy and location, and may change based on negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceuticals.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.