Evaluation of Helicobacter pylori Eradication Therapy in Dyspeptic Patients in a Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Objectives: The main purpose of this study was to evaluate H pylori eradication therapy in a tertiary care teaching hospital. Method: In this retrospective study, the eradication therapy for 83 patients was evaluated. Data was collected over six-month period. All prescriptions identified as for H pylori eradication during that period were considered eligible for the study. Patients' medical records were also reviewed. Collection of data was done using a predesigned data collection form. Analysis was performed using Statistical Package (STATA v12.0). Results: Regimens considered inappropriate comprised 41% of all prescribed regimens. Eighty percent of the inappropriate regimens consist of one or no antibiotic. "H pylori associated chronic gastritis" represents 88% of indications for eradication therapy. Abdominal pain and headache appeared to be the most commonly encountered adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in patients prescribed eradication therapy. Seventy six percent of the interviewed patients reported that they were not counseled about the potential ADRs of the prescribed medications. Conclusion: A number of inappropriate therapies for eradication of H pylori were observed. Patients were not fully aware of potential adverse drug reactions, which compromise patient compliance. Prescribing for H pylori eradication could be improved through well-defined guidelines. Patients should be counselled on the negative consequences of poor adherence to eradication therapy.