[A Norwegian conference on updating of the treatment of Helicobacter pylori in peptic ulcer. Interessegruppe for Gastroenterologi].

Recent data on peptic ulcer and Helicobacter pylori colonization of the ventricle were discussed. Agreement was reached to re-adjust the pharmacological treatment of this condition. All patients for whom antibiotic therapy is considered should be examined by gastroscope. The bacterial agent should be proved by at least one out of several available methods. Two different established regimens are prescribed, either triple therapy with bismuth, metronidazole and tetracycline or double treatment without bismuth, for instance amoxicillin and omeprazole. Clinical control should take place after about eight weeks, with a "breath-test" in the case of duodenal ulcers, or with gastroscopy and a urease test. Many pointed out that treatment aimed at gastric acid reduction is to be preferred in cases of first occurrence of ventricular ulcers. Long-term acid reduction by drugs should not be offered to a patient until an attempt has been made to eradicate existing bacteria. No patient should be operated on before he being given antibacterial treatment. Treatment of non-ulcer dyspepsia with antibiotics has not shown to have an affect.