Short report: evaluation of Helicobacter pylori eradication with bismuth sucralfate.

METHODS

In a pilot study we have evaluated the clinical efficacy of bismuth sucralfate to eradicate H. pylori. Ten consecutive patients with chronic dyspepsia and H. pylori associated gastritis were treated with bismuth sucralfate (220 mg bismuth per tablet, 4 tablets per day for 4 weeks). If a 14C urea breath test immediately after the medication was negative, a gastroscopy was performed one month later to obtain biopsies for culture and histological examination.

RESULTS

Four patients experienced side effects. In none of the ten patients could eradication of H. pylori be demonstrated one month after treatment with bismuth sucralfate.

CONCLUSION

Bismuth sucralfate is not effective for the treatment of H. pylori infection.