Pharmacological Treatment of H. Pylori Related Peptic Ulcer Disease

This 3-hour CE course provides an in-depth review of the pharmacologic management of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-associated peptic ulcer disease (PUD), a prevalent gastrointestinal condition with significant global morbidity. Designed for healthcare professionals involved in the diagnosis and treatment of upper gastrointestinal disorders, the course presents current clinical guidelines and evidence-based therapeutic strategies aimed at eradication, mucosal healing, and symptom resolution.

The course begins with an overview of the pathophysiology of H. pylori infection and its role in the development of gastric and duodenal ulcers. Diagnostic approaches, including urea breath testing, stool antigen testing, and endoscopic biopsy, are reviewed, along with criteria for selecting appropriate testing modalities based on patient presentation.

Participants will explore first-line treatment regimens such as clarithromycin-based triple therapy, bismuth quadruple therapy, and concomitant therapy, with detailed discussion on drug mechanisms, dosing, duration, and adherence considerations. Alternative regimens for patients with antibiotic resistance, penicillin allergy, or treatment failure are also addressed, supported by current data on regional resistance patterns and guideline recommendations from entities such as the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG).

Special focus is given to the role of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs), and cytoprotective agents in promoting mucosal healing and symptom control. Strategies to optimize treatment success, including patient education, medication timing, adverse effect management, and follow-up testing for eradication are examined in detail.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Describe the pathogenesis of H. pylori and its association with peptic ulcer disease.
• Identify appropriate diagnostic methods for confirming H. pylori infection.
• Compare and contrast standard first-line and salvage pharmacologic regimens.
• Understand the mechanisms and clinical application of acid-suppressive and adjunctive therapies.
• Apply guideline-based strategies to improve treatment adherence and eradication success.
• Monitor for adverse drug effects and treatment outcomes through appropriate follow-up protocols.

Completion Requirements:

To complete this CE course and receive full credit, participants must:

• Register for the course.
• Complete all course content.
• Score 70% or higher on the post-test.
• Submit a completed course evaluation.

Some courses may include additional assignments, reflection activities, or case studies.

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: The planners, authors, and presenters have no conflicts of interest or financial relationships with commercial entities related to this CE activity.
• Commercial Support: No commercial company has sponsored this course.
• Non-Endorsement: Approval of this CE activity does not imply endorsement of any product, service, or company.
• Off-Label Product Use: This course does not include unapproved uses of FDA-regulated products.