Modality of treatment and outcome of Helicobacter pylori infection in primary care. An Italian experience.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Aim of the present study was to evaluate the selection and the relative efficacy of H. pylori eradication regimens in primary care setting. METHODS: Patients referred to our Department, treated for H. pylori infection during the last 6 months, were enrolled during September 1998-July 1999. H. pylori status was assessed by urea breath test and recorded together with information about administered drugs, compliance, side effects. RESULTS: In patients undergone the first treatment course (1863 cases, 45% M, mean age 53+/-14 yrs) the mean eradication rate (ER) was 72% a double therapy was prescribed in 14% of cases, a triple therapy in 85% and a quadruple in 1%. Maastricht Consensus PPI-based regimens were prescribed in 80% of total cases with a mean ER of 73%. No statistical significant correlation was found between eradication failure and sex, age or administered treatment. CONCLUSIONS: In Italy, in primary care setting: 1) first line H. pylori eradication therapies reflect international guidelines; 2) the efficacy of such regimens is lower than the one reported by controlled trials such data should be kept in mind when pharmacoeconomic evaluations of H. pylori management are drawn.