Efficacy of tailored Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy based on antibiotic susceptibility and CYP2C19 genotype

Effects of the EM CYP2C19 type and MDR1 3435CC gene on Helicobacter pylori eradication rate in patients with duodenal ulcer by the four-drug regimen of rabeprazole, bismuth, tetracycline, and tinidazole

Background: The MDR1 genotype and the CYP2C19 phenotype determine how much PPI is absorbed from the gut and how much is processed in the liver.

Objective: To assess the impact of CYP2C19 and MDR1 C3435T gene polymorphisms on the efficiency of H. pylori eradication treatment with a 4-drug regimen of rabeprazole, bismuth, tetracycline, and tinidazole (RBTT) in patients with duodenal ulcers.

Methods: The study was conducted at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy. Gene polymorphisms for CYP2C19 and MDR1 C3435T were detected through a blood test. The RBTT 4-drug regimen was used to eradicate H. pylori.

Results: The success rate of the RBTT regimen for eradicating H. pylori in female patients with the CYP2C19 EM phenotype + MDR1 3435CC genotype was 20.0% lower than the rate of 91.7% for the group without both phenotype and genotype (p = 0.01, OR = 0.02, 95%CI: 0.00–0.45).

Conclusion: Compared to the group lacking both phenotypes and genotypes, female patients with the CYP2C19 EM phenotype + MDR1 3435CC genotype had a lower rate of H. pylori eradication by RBTT regimen.

The use of non-invasive stool tests for verification of Helicobacter pylori eradication and clarithromycin resistance

BACKGROUND

Clarithromycin resistance of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) represents a major challenge in eradication therapy. In this study, we assessed if non-invasive stool tests can be used to verify successful H. pylori eradication and determine clarithromycin resistance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this prospective study, patients undergoing urea breath testing (UBT) for confirmation of H. pylori eradication were asked to collect the stool as both a dry fecal sample and fecal immunochemical test (FIT). Stool H. pylori antigen testing (SAT) was performed on these samples and assessed for its accuracy in eradication verification. Type and duration of antibiotic treatment were retrospectively collected from patient records and compared with clarithromycin resistance determined by PCR of stool samples.

RESULTS

H. pylori eradication information was available for a total of 145 patients (42.7% male, median age: 51.2). Successful eradication was achieved in 68.1% of patients. SAT on FIT samples had similar accuracy for eradication assessment compared to dry fecal samples, 72.1% [95% CI 61.4-81.2] versus 72.2% [95% CI 60.9-81.7]. Clarithromycin resistance rate was 13.4%.

CONCLUSION

H. pylori antigen testing on FIT stool samples to verify H. pylori eradication is feasible and has similar accuracy as H. pylori antigen testing on dry stool samples. Dry stool, but not FIT, was suitable for non-invasive identification of H. pylori clarithromycin resistance by rt-PCR personalizing antibiotic treatment strategies without the need for invasive diagnostics is desirable, as the cure rate of first-line empirical H. pylori treatment remains low.

Helicobacter pylori infection

Helicobacter pylori infection causes chronic gastritis, which can progress to severe gastroduodenal pathologies, including peptic ulcer, gastric cancer and gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. H. pylori is usually transmitted in childhood and persists for life if untreated. The infection affects around half of the population in the world but prevalence varies according to location and sanitation standards. H. pylori has unique properties to colonize gastric epithelium in an acidic environment. The pathophysiology of H. pylori infection is dependent on complex bacterial virulence mechanisms and their interaction with the host immune system and environmental factors, resulting in distinct gastritis phenotypes that determine possible progression to different gastroduodenal pathologies. The causative role of H. pylori infection in gastric cancer development presents the opportunity for preventive screen-and-treat strategies. Invasive, endoscopy-based and non-invasive methods, including breath, stool and serological tests, are used in the diagnosis of H. pylori infection. Their use depends on the specific individual patient history and local availability. H. pylori treatment consists of a strong acid suppressant in various combinations with antibiotics and/or bismuth. The dramatic increase in resistance to key antibiotics used in H. pylori eradication demands antibiotic susceptibility testing, surveillance of resistance and antibiotic stewardship.

Association between proton pump inhibitors and rhabdomyolysis risk: a post-marketing surveillance using FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS) database

Background

This research aims to explore and compare the signals of rhabdomyolysis from the use of Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) using the United States Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database.

Methods

Rhabdomyolysis and related terms submitted between 2013 and 2021 were retrieved from the FAERS database. The data were analyzed using the reporting odds ratio (ROR), proportional reporting ratio (PRR), Empirical Bayes Geometric Mean (EBGM) and the information component (IC). The signals of rhabdomyolysis associated with PPIs use were detected in both 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) utilizers and non-utilizers.

Results

A total of 7,963,090 reports were retrieved and analyzed. Fifty-seven reports linked PPIs to rhabdomyolysis out of 3670 reports from other drugs (non-statin included). The association of rhabdomyolysis and PPIs was significant in both statins included, and non-statin-included reports, although with varying degrees of association. The ROR was 2.5 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9-3.2) for PPIs in non-statin-included reports and 2 (95% CI: 1.5-2.6) for PPIs in statin-included reports.

Conclusion

Significant signals of rhabdomyolysis were associated with PPIs. However, its signals were higher in non-statin-included reports compared to statin-included reports.

Plain Language Summary

Plain language summaryProton Pump Inhibitors and rhabdomyolysis risk Background: The FDA created the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database to support post-marketing surveillance programs. The FAERS is a computerized database with more than nine million adverse event reports, including all reports from 1969 to the present. This research aims to explore and compare the signals of rhabdomyolysis from the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) using the United States Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database.Research design and methods: We retrieved rhabdomyolysis and related terms submitted between 2013 and 2021 from the FAERS database. Then, we analyzed the data that we found. We detected the signals of rhabdomyolysis associated with PPIs use in both statins utilizers and non-utilizers.Results: We retrieved and analyzed a total of 7,963,090 reports. We found 57 reports linked PPIs to rhabdomyolysis out of 3670 reports from other drugs (non-statin included). The association of rhabdomyolysis and PPIs was significant in both statins included, and non-statin-included reports, although with varying degrees of association.Conclusion: Significant signals of rhabdomyolysis were associated with PPIs. However, its signals were higher in non-statin-included reports than in statin-included reports.

Potential factors of Helicobacter pylori resistance to clarithromycin

OBJECTIVES

A comparative dissolution kinetics test (CDKT) and bioequivalence studies of generic proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) do not model pharmacological acid suppression (PAS) and pathological duodenogastric reflux (PDGR). This study aimed to model them in CDKT to assess drugs stability and potential pantoprazole-clarithromycin interactions.

METHODS

In CDKT, PDGR (dissolution medium pH 7.00 ± 0.05, preexposure at pH 1.20 ± 0.05) and PAS (pH 4.00 ± 0.05) were modelled for original pantoprazole (OP) and its generics (GP1-4). In CDKT with high-performance liquid chromatography, dissolution gastric medium in adequate (pH 4.00 ± 0.05) and inadequate (pH 1.20 ± 0.05) PAS were modelled for original clarithromycin (OC) and its generics (GC1-4).

RESULTS

After exposure in pH 7.00 ± 0.05, pantoprazole was released from GP1 within 10 min in the amount of 68.8%. In рН 4.00 ± 0.05, 83.0% and 81.5% of pantoprazole were released from GP1 and GP4. When OP, GP2 and GP3 were placed in pH 7.00 ± 0.05, pantoprazole was released in amount: 99.4%, 88.0% and 98.2%. Clarithromycin releasing from OC, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC4 in pH 4.00 ± 0.05 was 93.5%, 91.6%, 92.9%, 79.4% and 83.0%. In pH 1.20 ± 0.05: 9.7%, 6.7%, 8.5%, 33.3%, 28.8%.

CONCLUSIONS

Destruction of enteric coats of some local pantoprazole generics in CDKT-models might be a potential factor for inadequate therapy.

[Prospects for personalized Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy. Pro et contra]

The article is devoted to debatable aspects of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy. The eradication cancer-preventive effects are considered. A negative comorbidity between H. pylori infection and such diseases as gastroesophageal reflux disease, inflammatory bowel disease and bronchial asthma has been described. The perspectives of populational, individualized and personalized strategies for H. pylori eradication therapy assessment are given. Recommendations for individualized H. pylori eradication strategy implementation in practical healthcare are proposed.

Pitfalls of Physician-Directed Treatment of Helicobacter pylori: Results from Two Phase 3 Clinical Trials and Real-World Prescribing Data

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infects ~ 35% of Americans and can lead to serious sequelae if left untreated. Growing evidence indicates that clarithromycin-based therapies (CBT) are becoming increasingly ineffective for treating H. pylori infection. RHB-105 was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2019 for the treatment of H. pylori infection in adults.

AIMS

The primary aim of this study was to assess prescribing patterns and associated cure rates of physician-directed therapy for subjects with persistent H. pylori infection after participation in one of two Phase 3 clinical trials (ERADICATE Hp and ERADICATE Hp2).

METHODS

We reviewed study reports to identify specific physician-directed regimens selected for subjects whose H. pylori infection was not eradicated. We also conducted a CYP2C19 genotype analysis of subjects who were prescribed CBT. Finally, we analyzed real-world H. pylori retail prescription data and compared these with to the physician-directed therapies in the clinical trials studies.

RESULTS

Following ERADICATE Hp, CBT was prescribed for 27/31 (87%) subjects achieving a 59.3% cure rate. Following ERADICATE Hp2, CBT was prescribed for 48/94 (51%) subjects achieving a 60.4% cure rate. Rapid CYP2C19 metabolizers (2/11) had a cure rate of 18.2% with CBT. Real-world prescription data from IQVIA showed more than 80% of prescriptions for H. pylori infection were for CBT.

CONCLUSIONS

Rates of CBT use persist despite sub-optimal eradication rates. Since RHB-105 does not contain clarithromycin, it can be prescribed first-line without concerns about clarithromycin resistance or CYP2C19 status. NCT03198507 & NCT01980095.

In situ Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori Infection Using the Endoscopic Kyoto Scoring System

Background/Aims: This study aimed to investigate the possibility of in situ diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection during endoscopic examination. The predictive infection value was estimated using the endoscopic Kyoto scoring system (EKSS), and specific endoscopic findings were evaluated for diagnosing H. pylori infection in H. pylori naïve patients and those with a eradication history.Materials and Methods: A total of 836 patients with H. pylori infection were analyzed. The state of the infection was predicted using the EKSS and specific endoscopic findings.Results: Patients were classified into two groups: the H. pylori naïve group and the group with a the bacterial eradication history. The area under the curve (AUC) on receiver operating characteristics analysis was 0.90 for EKSS in H. pylori naïve patients and 0.83 for the other group patients. For patients with open type atrophy and/or intestinal metaplasia, EKSS (24.4%; 95% CI, 12.4~0.3%) and regular arrangement of collecting venules (RAC) (46.3%; 95% CI, 30.7~62.9%) showed low specificities. Mucosal swelling (66.2%; 95% CI, 62.5~69.7%) and sticky mucus (80.5%; 95% CI, 74.8~85.2%) presented relatively high positive predictive values for H. pylori infection in naïve patients, whereas reflux esophagitis, hematin, red streak, and duodenitis exhibited high negative predictive values in patients with a H. pylori eradication history (98.0%; 95% CI, 96.4~99.1%).Conclusions: EKSS and RAC are excellent tools for predicting H. pylori infection. However, they have a limited role in patients with open type atrophy and/or intestinal metaplasia. Specific endoscopic findings could help predict the infection state.

Tailored eradication strategy vs concomitant therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment in Korean patients

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic resistance to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, which ultimately results in eradication failure, has been an emerging issue in the clinical field. Recently, to overcome this problem, an antibiotic sensitivity-based tailored therapy (TT) for H. pylori infection has received attention.

AIM

To investigate the efficacy and safety profiles of TT for H. pylori infection treatment compared to a non-bismuth quadruple therapy, concomitant therapy (CT) regimen.

METHODS

We included patients (> 18 years) with an H. pylori infection and without a history of Helicobacter eradication who visited the Gil Medical Center between March 2016 and October 2020. After being randomly assigned to either the TT or CT treatment group in 1 to 1 manner, patient compliance, eradication success rate (ESR), and patient-reported side effects profiles were assessed and compared between the two groups. H. pylori infection was diagnosed using a rapid urease test, Giemsa stain, or dual priming oligonucleotide polymerase chain reaction (DPO-PCR). Tailored eradication strategy based through the presence of a 23S ribosomal RNA point mutation. For the TT group, a DPO-PCR test, which detected A2142G and/or A2143G point mutations, and a clarithromycin resistance test were performed. Patients in the clarithromycin-resistant group were treated with a bismuth-containing quadruple combination therapy, while those with sensitive results were treated with the standard triple regimen.

RESULTS

Of the 217 patients with a treatment naive H. pylori infection, 110 patients [mean age: 58.66 ± 13.03, men, n = 55 (50%)] were treated with TT, and 107 patients [mean age: 56.67 ± 10.88, men, n = 52 (48.60%)] were treated with CT. The compliance (TT vs CT, 100% vs 98.13%, P = 0.30), and follow-up loss rates (8.18% vs 9.35%, P = 0.95) were not significantly different between the groups. The ESR after treatment was also not statistically different between the groups (TT vs CT, 82.73% vs 82.24%, P = 0.95). However, the treatment-related and patient-reported side effects were significantly lower in the TT group than in the CT group (22.77% vs 50.52%, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The DPO-based TT regimen shows promising results in efficacy and safety profiles as a first-line Helicobacter eradication regimen in Korea, especially when physicians are confronted with increased antibiotic resistance rates.

Application of Visual Gene Clip-Based Tailored Therapy for the Eradication of Helicobacter pylori

Background

Helicobacter pylori eradication with therapies employing a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and antimicrobial agents is mainly achieved via bacterial susceptibility to antimicrobial agents and the magnitude of acid secretion inhibition. However, annual eradication rates have greatly declined in Mainland China, and therefore, tailored H. pylori eradication regimens that inhibit acid secretion and employ optimal antimicrobial agents determined based on gene clip testing may improve eradication rates. This study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of tailored H. pylori eradication therapy guided by visual gene clip testing for antibiotic resistance and PPI metabolism genotypes.

Methods

This prospective study included 244 patients (141 men and 103 women aged 20-79 years) receiving initial treatment for H. pylori infection. Visual gene clip testing using gastric mucosal specimens was performed to detect antibiotic resistance to clarithromycin conferred by the A2142G and A2143G point mutations of the H. pylori 23S rRNA gene and to levofloxacin conferred by the Asn87 and Asp91 point mutations of the H. pylori gyrA gene. Patients received a 14-day bismuth quadruple therapy regimen guided by testing for antibiotic resistance and CYP2C19 polymorphisms, and primary H. pylori eradication was assessed at least 4 weeks after therapy.

Results

H. pylori strains were successfully isolated from the gastric mucosa tissues of 244 patients. Antibiotic resistant isolates were identified in 63 patients, with clarithromycin resistance observed in 50 patients, levofloxacin resistance in 7 patients, and dual resistance in 6 patients. The PPI metabolic genotype of CYP2C19 was detected in 242 of 244 cases, and 97 cases were categorized as extensive metabolizers, 141 as intermediate metabolizers, and 4 as poor metabolizers. Among the 242 patients who received tailored therapy, the H. pylori eradication rate was 90.9% (95% confidence interval 87.3%~94.6%) in the intention-to-treat analysis and 96.9% (95% confidence interval 94.7%~99.2%) in the per protocol analysis.

Conclusions

Tailored therapy for H. pylori infection guided by determination of antibiotic resistance and CYP2C19 polymorphism using visual gene chip technology may provide high clinical effectiveness as initial H. pylori eradication therapy.

Extrahepatic cytochrome P450 epoxygenases: pathophysiology and clinical significance in human gastrointestinal cancers

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) epoxygenases, a multi-gene superfamily of heme-containing enzymes, are commonly known to metabolize endogenous arachidonic acid (AA) to epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs). The role of CYPs is mostly studied in liver drugs metabolism, cardiac pathophysiology, and hypertension fields. Particularly, the biological functions of these enzymes have increasingly attracted a growing interest in cancer biology. Most published studies on CYPs in cancer have been limited to their role as drug metabolizing systems. The activity of these enzymes may affect drug pharmacokinetics and bioavailability as well as exogenous compounds turnover. Some CYP isoforms are selectively highly expressed in tumors, suggesting a potential mechanistic role in promoting resistance to chemotherapy. Majority of drugs elicit their effects in extrahepatic tissues whereby their metabolism can significantly determine treatment outcome. Nonetheless, the role of extrahepatic CYPs is not fully understood and targeting these enzymes as effective anti-cancer therapies are yet to be developed. This review article summarizes an up-to-date body of information from published studies on CYP enzymes expression levels and pathophysiological functions in human normal and malignant gastrointestinal (GI) tract tissues. Specifically, we reviewed and discussed the current research initiatives by emphasizing on the clinical significance and the pathological implication of CYPs in GI malignancies of esophagus, stomach, and colon.

The appropriate cutoff gastric pH value for Helicobacter pylori eradication with bismuth-based quadruple therapy

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate whether an increased proton pump inhibitor (PPI) dose enhanced the efficacy of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication and determine the appropriate cutoff intragastric pH value that could predict H. pylori eradication with bismuth-based quadruple therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 207 H. pylori infected, treatment naive patients were enrolled in this prospective, open-label, randomized controlled trial. Patients were randomly allocated into Eso40-group (esomeprazole 40 mg bid) and Eso20-group (esomeprazole 20 mg bid), and their CYP2C19 genotyping status was assessed. The 24-h intragastric pH monitoring on day 7 was performed, and percentage of time gastric pH ≥ 3, ≥4, ≥5, and ≥6 (pH holding time ratios; HTRs) were measured. H. pylori eradication was evaluated using ¹³ C-urea breath test.

RESULTS

No significant difference in the eradication rates was observed between two groups. The median 24-h intragastric pH value was not significant different between two groups but the Eso40 Group had a significant higher pH4 HTRs (91.11% [95%CI: 87.50%-95.83%] vs. 95.83% [95.83%-100%]; p = .002). Additionally, the median 24-h intragastric pH value showed significantly difference between two groups in EM genotype (Eso20 Group 6.00 [95%CI; 5.75-6.15] vs. Eso40 Group 6.30 [6.05-6.30]; p = .019). Similar results were observed in pH4 HTRs. There were significant differences in intragastric pH value (6.10 [95%CI: 4.40-7.00] vs. 5.65 [4.85-5.95], p = .038) and in pH4 HTRs (96% [95%CI: 92.00%-96.00%] vs. 87.5% [67.00%-100.0%], p = .019) between eradication-successful and eradication-failed patients. Statistical analysis suggested that the median intragastric pH = 5.7 could identify the success of H. pylori eradication.

CONCLUSIONS

Bismuth-based quadruple therapy resulted in high H. pylori eradication rates either in PPI standard or double doses. Double dose of esomeprazole is associated with better intragastric acid suppression. A median 24-h intragastric pH of 5.7 could be appropriate cutoff value for predicting the successful H. pylori eradication.

Personalized therapy for Helicobacter pylori: CYP2C19 genotype effect on first-line triple therapy

BACKGROUND

Triple therapy efficacy against Helicobacter pylori is low worldwide, and thus, alternatives must be sought to improve eradication. The aim of the present study was to determine CYP2C19 genetic polymorphism effect on H pylori eradication.

METHODS

A randomized, single-blinded clinical trial including 133 participants was carried out. H pylori infection was confirmed by histologic and microbiologic test. Antibiotic susceptibility to amoxicillin and clarithromycin was performed. CYP2C19 polymorphisms *1, *2, and *3 were analyzed by real-time PCR (Roche ®), and nested PCR for CYP2C19*17 polymorphisms. Participants were randomized into two groups for different H pylori therapies, one with standard omeprazole doses and another with omeprazole doses depending on CYP2C19 polymorphism. H pylori eradication was verified by stool antigen tests (Meridian ®).

RESULTS

The most common CYP2C19 polymorphism was *1/*1 in 54.9% of the participants followed by *17/*17 in 21.1%. Triple therapy efficacy with standard omeprazole doses versus personalized therapy based on CYP2C19 polymorphism by ITT analysis was 84% (95% CI: 0.73-0.91) vs 92.2% (95% CI: 0.82-0.97) (P = 0. 14), respectively. The efficacy by PP analysis was 92.1% (95% CI: 0.82-0.97) vs 100% (95% CI: 0.92-0.01) (P = 0.027), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The most frequent polymorphism was extensive PPI metabolizers (62.4%). Effectiveness of guided therapies by susceptibility test was good, yet they can be further improved by customized therapy based on CYP genotype. Therefore, high PPI (80 mg/d) doses are recommended for H pylori eradication therapies in Colombia. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03650543.

Can Aminoglycosides Be Used as a New Treatment for Helicobacter pylori? In vitro Activity of Recently Isolated Helicobacter pylori

BACKGROUND

Smectite can serve as a drug delivery system and gentamicin-intercalated smectite hybrids are expected to supersede the standard therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication. The aim of this study was to confirm whether the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of aminoglycosides applied as smectite hybrids remained low against recently isolated H. pylori strains.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 140 strains were collected for a minimum period of 3 years. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed, and the MICs of eight antibiotics (amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole, tetracycline, levofloxacin, gentamicin, netilmicin, and tobramycin) were determined by using the Epsilometer test and following the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing recommendations.

RESULTS

The resistance rate of clarithromycin was high, up to 30.7%, although it is a major antimicrobial agent used in standard therapy. The MIC₅₀ and MIC₉₀ of gentamicin (0.25 mg/L and 0.75 mg/L) and netilmicin (0.19 mg/L and 0.75 mg/L) were lower than other alternative therapies for H. pylori eradication. In clarithromycin-resistant strains, the MIC₅₀ was 0.25 mg/L and the MIC₉₀ was 1 mg/L for gentamicin; for netilmicin, the values were 0.25 mg/L and 0.75 mg/L, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Through the use of gentamicin and netilmicin, which have low MICs for H. pylori, aminoglycoside-intercalated smectite hybrids are expected to emerge as a new standard therapy for H. pylori eradication.

Ten-day high-dose proton pump inhibitor triple therapy versus sequential therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Eradication rates of Helicobacter pylori following standard triple therapy are declining worldwide, but high-dose proton pump inhibitor-based triple therapy (HD-PPI-TT) and sequential therapy (ST) have demonstrated higher cure rates. We aimed to compare the efficacy and tolerability of HD-PPI-TT and ST in H. pylori-associated functional dyspepsia (FD).

METHODS

One hundred and twenty H. pylori-associated functional dyspepsia patients were randomized to receive 10-day HD-PPI-TT (60 mg lansoprazole/500 mg clarithromycin/1 g amoxicillin, each administered twice daily for 10 days) or 10-day ST (30 mg lansoprazole/1 g amoxicillin, each administered twice daily for 5 days followed by 30 mg lansoprazole/500 mg clarithromycin/400 mg metronidazole, each administered twice daily for 5 days). H. pylori status was determined in post-treatment week 4 by ¹⁴ C-urea breath test. Eradication and antibiotic resistance rates, dyspeptic symptoms, drug compliance, and adverse effects were compared.

RESULTS

Intention-to-treat eradication rates were similar in the ST and HD-PPI-TT groups (85% vs. 80%; P = 0.47). However, the eradication rate was significantly higher following ST compared with HD-PPI-TT in per protocol analysis (94.4% vs. 81.4%; P = 0.035). ST achieved higher cure rates than HD-PPI-TT in clarithromycin-resistant H. pylori strains (100% vs. 33.3%; P = 0.02). Treatment compliance was similar in the HD-PPI-TT and ST groups, although nausea and dizziness were more common in the ST group.

CONCLUSIONS

Sequential therapy achieved better H. pylori eradication than HD-PPI-TT in patients with FD. However, the eradication rate for ST fell from 94.4% in per protocol to 85% in intention-to-treat analysis. Adverse effects might result in poorer compliance and compromise actual ST efficacy (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01888237).

CYP2C19 polymorphism has no influence on rabeprazole-based hybrid therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication

AIM

To evaluate the impact of cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) polymorphisms on the efficacy of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication by using rabeprazole-based hybrid therapy.

METHODS

A total of 88 H. pylori-infected patients were recruited to receive 14-d of hybrid therapy from March 2013 to May 2014. Three patients were excluded from analysis because of incomplete compliance. Either a follow-up endoscopy or ¹³C-urea test was performed to determine the results of H. pylori eradication therapy. The genotypes of CYP2C19 and IL-1β were analyzed to investigate the impact on treatment effect.

RESULTS

The total eradication rate of H. pylori was 92.94% (79/85). According to the CYP2C19 genotypes, the rates of H. pylori eradication were 89.19% in extensive metabolizers (EM) and 95.83% in non-EM. The H. pylori eradication rates regarding the IL-1β genotypes were 92.59% in the normal acid secretion group and 93.10% in the low acid secretion group. After multivariable logistic regression analysis, both the genotypes of CYP2C19 and IL-1β had no significant influences on the eradication rates of H. pylori.

CONCLUSION

The CYP2C19 and IL-1β polymorphisms are not significantly independent factors of H. pylori eradication using rabeprazole-based hybrid therapy.

Effectiveness of Helicobacter pylori eradication established on the basis of examination of antibiotic resistance of the bacteria

INTRODUCTION

The treatment of Helicobacter pylori (HP) tends to be empirical despite a high number of failures (over 20%). The efficacy of eradication therapies is declining, reaching in some countries 60%, which correlates inversely with the growing drug resistance of the bacteria.

AIM

Given the frequent inefficacy of the hitherto proposed treatment schemes for HP infection, an attempt was made to assess the efficacy of a therapy based on the antibiotic resistance of the cultured bacteria, and to analyse factors with possible contribution to the inefficacy of HP eradication treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study covered patients from one region of Central Poland in the years 2005-2015. The total material for bacteriological assessment was collected from 154 patients who had previously been subject to HP eradication treatment at least two times, including 80 women and 74 men, reporting subsequently to the Clinic.

RESULTS

The efficacy of the antibiogram-based treatment was merely 65.62%. A low, but slightly higher than expected, resistance to amoxicillin (3.48%) and tetracycline (2.27%), as well as to clarithromycin (27.27%) and metronidazole (70.69%), was established.

CONCLUSIONS

In Polish patients resistance to clarithromycin and metronidazole of HP is high and becoming increasingly resistant; however, we found low bacterial resistance to tetracycline.

IVTH BRAZILIAN CONSENSUS CONFERENCE ON HELICOBACTER PYLORI INFECTION

ABSTRACT Significant progress has been obtained since the III Brazilian Consensus Conference on H. pylori infection held in 2012, in Bento Gonçalves, Brazil, and justify a fourth meeting to establish updated guidelines on the current management of H. pylori infection. Therefore, the Núcleo Brasileiro para Estudo do Helicobacter pylori e Microbiota (NBEHPM), association linked to Brazilian Federation of Gastroenterology (FBG) held its fourth meeting again in Bento Gonçalves, RS, Brazil, on August 25-27, 2017. Twenty-six delegates, including gastroenterologists, endoscopists, and pathologists from the five regions of Brazil as well as one international guest from the United States, participated in the meeting. The participants were invited based on their knowledge and contribution to the study of H. pylori infection. The meeting sought to review different aspects of treatment for infection; establish a correlation between infection, dyspepsia, intestinal microbiota changes, and other disorders with a special emphasis on gastric cancer; and reassess the epidemiological and diagnostic aspects of H. pylori infection. Participants were allocated into four groups as follows: 1) Epidemiology and Diagnosis, 2) Dyspepsia, intestinal microbiota and other afections, 3) Gastric Cancer, and, 4) Treatment. Before the consensus meeting, participants received a topic to be discussed and prepared a document containing a recent literature review and statements that should be discussed and eventually modified during the face-to-face meeting. All statements were evaluated in two rounds of voting. Initially, each participant discussed the document and statements with his group for possible modifications and voting. Subsequently, during a second voting in a plenary session in the presence of all participants, the statements were voted upon and eventually modified. The participants could vote using five alternatives: 1) strongly agree; 2) partially agree; 3) undecided; 4) disagree; and 5) strongly disagree. The adopted consensus index was that 80% of the participants responded that they strongly or partially agreed with each statement. The recommendations reported are intended to provide the most current and relevant evidences to management of H. pylori infection in adult population in Brazil.

Proton pump inhibitors: from CYP2C19 pharmacogenetics to precision medicine

Introduction: Proton Pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly used for a variety of acid related disorders. Despite the overall effectiveness and safety profile of PPIs, some patients do not respond adequately or develop treatment related adverse events. This variable response among patients is in part due to genotype variability of CYP2C19, the gene encoding the CYP450 (CYP2C19) isoenzyme responsible for PPIs metabolism.

Areas covered: This article provides an overview of the pharmacokinetics and mechanism of action of the currently available PPIs, including the magnitude of CYPC19 contribution to their metabolism. Additionally, the role of CYP2C19 genetic variability in the therapeutic effectiveness or outcomes of PPI therapy is highlighted in details, to provide supporting evidence for the potential value of CYP2C19 genotype-guided approaches to PPI drug therapy.

Expert opinion: There is a large body of evidence describing the impact of CYP2C19 variability on PPIs and its potential role in individualizing PPI therapy, yet, CYP2C19 pharmacogenetics has not been widely implemented into clinical practice. More data are needed but CYP2C19 genotype-guided dosing of PPIs is likely to become increasingly common and is expected to improve clinical outcomes, and minimize side effects related to PPIs.

Helicobacter pylori management in ASEAN: The Bangkok consensus report

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection remains to be the major cause of important upper gastrointestinal diseases such as chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, gastric adenocarcinoma, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. H. pylori management in ASEAN: the Bangkok consensus report gathered key opinion leaders for the region to review and evaluate clinical aspects of H. pylori infection and to develop consensus statements, rationales, and grades of recommendation for the management of H. pylori infection in clinical practice in ASEAN countries. This ASEAN Consensus consisted of 34 international experts from 10 ASEAN countries, Japan, Taiwan, and the United States. The meeting mainly focused on four issues: (i) epidemiology and disease association; (ii) diagnostic tests; (iii) management; and (iv) follow-up after eradication. The final results of each workshop were presented for consensus voting by all participants. Statements, rationale, and recommendations were developed from the available current evidence to help clinicians in the diagnosis and treatment of H. pylori and its clinical diseases.

Importance of antimicrobial susceptibility testing for the management of eradication in Helicobacter pylori infection

The management of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection treatment differs from the common treatment protocol for other infectious diseases. Because culture- or molecular-guided approaches face several practical issues, such as the invasive procedures required to obtain gastric biopsy specimens and the lack of availability of routine laboratory testing in some places, H. pylori treatment includes the administration of two or three empirically selected antibiotics combined with a proton pump inhibitor rather than evidence-based eradication treatment. The efficacy of empirical therapy is decreasing, mostly due to increasing multiple resistance. Multiresistance to levofloxacin, clarithromycin, and metronidazole, which are commonly used in empirical treatments, appears to have increased in many countries. Mutations play a primary role in the antimicrobial resistance of H. pylori, but many different mechanisms can be involved in the development of antibiotic resistance. Determining and understanding these possible mechanisms might allow the development of new methods for the detection of H. pylori and the determination of antimicrobial resistance. A treatment based on the detection of antimicrobial resistance is usually more effective than empirical treatment. Nevertheless, such an approach before treatment is still not recommended in the Maastricht guidelines due to the difficulty associated with the routine application of available culture- or molecular-based susceptibility tests, which are usually administered in cases of treatment failure. The management of first and rescue treatments requires further research due to the steadily increase in antimicrobial resistance.

Institutional profile: University of Florida Health Personalized Medicine Program

The University of Florida (UF) Health Personalized Medicine Program launched in 2012 with CYP2C19 genotyping for clopidogrel response at UF Health Shands Hospital. We have since expanded CYP2C19 genotyping to UF Health Jacksonville and established the infrastructure at UF Health to support clinical implementation for five additional gene-drug pairs: TPMT-thiopurines, IFNL3 (IL28B)-PEG IFN-α-based regimens, CYP2D6-opioids, CYP2D6/CYP2C19-antidepressants and CYP2C19-proton pump inhibitors. We are contributing to the evidence based on outcomes with genotype-guided therapy through pragmatic studies of our clinical implementations. In addition, we have developed a broad array of educational programs for providers, trainees and students that incorporate personal genotype evaluation to enhance participant learning.

Clarithromycin-Based Triple Therapy is Still Useful as an Initial Treatment for Helicobacter pylori Infection in the Dominican Republic

AbstractHelicobacter pylori antibiotic susceptibility in the Dominican Republic has not been monitored. We assessed H. pylori antibiotic susceptibility in the Dominican Republic, and analyzed H. pylori mutations associated with antibiotic resistance. We recruited 158 dyspeptic patients in Santo Domingo and used agar dilution to test susceptibility to five antibiotics. Polymerase chain reaction-based sequencing was used to assess gyrA, gyrB, rdxA, frxA, and 23S rRNA mutations; next-generation sequencing was used to identify other metronidazole resistance-associated genes. Among 64 H. pylori strains isolated, we identified two (3.1%), one (1.6%), and no strains with clarithromycin, amoxicillin, and tetracycline resistance, respectively. Moreover, high frequency of metronidazole resistance (53/64, 82.8%) was observed, whereas levofloxacin resistance is emerging (23/64, 35.9%). We identified many rdxA and frxA mutations in metronidazole-resistant strains, but no synergistic effect was apparent. We revealed novel mutations in dppA, dppB, fdxA, and fdxB, irrespective of rdxA and frxA mutations. Novel mutations at Ser-14 of trx1 and Arg-221 of dapF were associated with different levels of metronidazole resistance. Most levofloxacin-resistant strains had a substitution at Asn-87 of gyrA, including the strain with the highest levofloxacin resistance, whereas only three substitutions were found at Ser-479 of gyrB with no synergistic effect. Besides the 23S rRNA A2142G mutation, we observed another mutation at T1958G in both clarithromycin-resistant strains. We confirmed high metronidazole and levofloxacin resistance associated with genetic mutations in the Dominican Republic. However, prevalence of clarithromycin resistance was low, suggesting that standard clarithromycin-based triple therapy remains useful as initial treatment of H. pylori infection.

Management of Helicobacter pylori infection-the Maastricht V/Florence Consensus Report

Important progress has been made in the management of Helicobacter pylori infection and in this fifth edition of the Maastricht Consensus Report, key aspects related to the clinical role of H. pylori were re-evaluated in 2015. In the Maastricht V/Florence Consensus Conference, 43 experts from 24 countries examined new data related to H. pylori in five subdivided workshops: (1) Indications/Associations, (2) Diagnosis, (3) Treatment, (4) Prevention/Public Health, (5) H. pylori and the Gastric Microbiota. The results of the individual workshops were presented to a final consensus voting that included all participants. Recommendations are provided on the basis of the best available evidence and relevance to the management of H. pylori infection in the various clinical scenarios.

Optimized high-dose amoxicillin-proton-pump inhibitor dual therapies fail to achieve high cure rates in China

Background\Aim: Quadruple daily administration of proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy achieves potent acid inhibition, and combined with amoxicillin, with its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic characteristics, may be efficient for Helicobacter pylori eradication. We compared the efficacy of two optimized high-dose dual therapies with a bismuth-containing quadruple regimen for treating H. pylori infection. Rabeprazole dosages for H. pylori eradication were also evaluated.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Treatment-naive and H. pylori-positive subjects were recruited and randomly apportioned to three treatment groups: Group A (n = 87), rabeprazole 10 mg plus amoxicillin 750 mg (4 times/day for 14 days); Group B (n = 87), rabeprazole 20 mg plus amoxicillin 750 mg (4 times/day for 14 days); and Group C (n = 89), bismuth-containing quadruple regimen consisting of rabeprazole 20 mg, bismuth 220 mg, amoxicillin 1000 mg, and clarithromycin 500 mg (2 times/day for 14 days). Four weeks after treatment discontinuation, patients were examined for H. pylori infection by 13C-urea breath test. The rates of adverse effects, compliance, and eradication were evaluated.

RESULTS

Eradication rates in groups A, B, and C were 78.1, 81.6, and 84.3%, respectively, based on intention-to-treat analysis, or 79.1, 83.5, and 86.2%, according to per-protocol analysis. Rates of adverse events and compliance of the three groups were similar.

CONCLUSION

For treating H. pylori infection, optimized high-dose amoxicillin-PPI dual therapies failed to achieve high cure rates in China and held no advantage over a bismuth-containing quadruple regimen.

Tailored versus Triple plus Bismuth or Concomitant Therapy as Initial Helicobacter pylori Treatment: A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

With markedly increased antibiotic resistance and unsatisfactory efficacies of common empiric eradication regimens in the mainland of China, tailored therapy may be the best choice to achieve good efficacy. This study compared the eradication rates, safety, and compliance of tailored therapy to those of triple therapy plus bismuth and concomitant therapy in the naïve patients with Helicobacter pylori infection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between September 2013 and April 2014, 1050 patients with H. pylori infection at three tertiary hospitals were randomly assigned to 10-day treatment with tailored, triple plus bismuth, or concomitant regimens. In tailored therapy, medications were adjusted according to clarithromycin sensitivity and cytochrome P450 isoenzyme 2C19 genotype. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing (E test) was performed. Eradication status was assessed 4-12 weeks after treatment.

RESULTS

The eradication rate was significantly higher in tailored group than in triple plus bismuth and concomitant groups in both intention-to-treat (88.7 vs 77.4 vs 78.3%, p < .001) and per-protocol (93.3 vs 87.0 vs 87.4%, p = .021) analyses in a setting with high antibiotic resistance (clarithromycin 48.8%, metronidazole 65.7%, and dual resistance 35.3%). Significantly, fewer adverse effects occurred in tailored group than in concomitant group (22.0 vs 31.7%, p = .018). The eradication rates of dual clarithromycin and metronidazole resistance, isolated clarithromycin resistance, isolated metronidazole resistance, and dual susceptible were 78.7, 82.4, 94.8, and 94.4% in triple therapy plus bismuth and 75.9, 87.2, 92.9, and 95.2% in concomitant therapy, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

First-line tailored therapy achieves significantly higher eradication rates and fewer side effects, compared to triple therapy plus bismuth and concomitant therapy in a setting with high rates of clarithromycin and metronidazole resistance.

Rapid metabolizer genotype of CYP2C19 is a risk factor of being refractory to proton pump inhibitor therapy for reflux esophagitis

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are mainly metabolized by cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) and used as the first-line therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, while several studies have examined the influence of CYP2C19 polymorphism on GERD treatment with PPIs, most have had small sample sizes and were conducted in a single center. Here, we used meta-analysis to investigate whether or not the CYP2C19 rapid metabolizer (RM) genotype is a risk factor for GERD patients being refractory to PPI therapy.

METHODS

PubMed and other electronic databases were systematically searched up to August 2014 using the following terms: "GERD and CYP2C19", "esophagitis and CYP2C19", and "non-erosive reflux disease and CYP2C19." Searches were limited to publications in English, and two investigators evaluated eligible studies and extracted data.

RESULTS

The total efficacy rate of PPIs for GERD, including reflux esophagitis (RE) and non-erosive reflux disease, was 56.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]; 53.9-58.9%, 870/1543) in intention-to-treat analysis and 63.8% (95%CI; 61.3-66.2%, 950/1489) in per-protocol analysis. Efficacy rates varied significantly between CYP2C19 genotypes (intention-to-treat analysis: RMs, 52.2% [315/604]; intermediate metabolizers, 56.7% [298/526]; poor metabolizers [PMs], 61.3% [138/225]; P = 0.047). Among RE patients, CYP2C19 RMs had an increased risk of being refractory to PPI therapy compared with PMs (odds ratio: 1.661, 95% CI: 1.023-2.659, P = 0.040).

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis demonstrates that CYP2C19 RMs with RE have an increased risk of being refractory to PPI therapy compared with PMs. Individualized dosing regimen with PPIs based on CYP2C19 genotype might be a valid therapeutic strategy for overcoming insufficient gastric acid inhibition.

Tailored Therapy Versus Empiric Chosen Treatment for Helicobacter pylori Eradication: A Meta-Analysis

Although various regimens are empirically accepted for Helicobacter pylori eradication, the efficacy might be declined by multiple individual factors. The necessity of a personalized eradication therapy still remains controversial. The aim of the study was to compare tailored therapy with empiric chosen regimens. Databases of PUBMED, EMBASE, and MEDLINE were searched for eligible studies, published up to October 2015. All relevant controlled clinical trials were included. A random-effect model was applied to compare pooled relative risk (RR) with related 95% confidence intervals (CIs).Thirteen controlled clinical trials integrating 3512 participants were assessed. Overall, the pooled eradication rates of tailored groups were higher than those of empiric ones (intention-to-treat: RR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.10-1.22; preprotocol: RR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.08-1.21). In subgroup analysis, tailored therapy was superior to 7-day standard triple therapy (RR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.16-1.29) and bismuth-quadruple therapy (RR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.07-1.22) on eradication rates; first-line tailored therapy achieved higher eradication rates than first-line empirical regimens (pooled RR = 1.18, 95%CI 1.14-1.22), whereas tailored rescue regimen showed no difference with empirical ones (pooled RR = 1.16, 95% CI 0.96-1.39). Moreover, among different tailored designs, susceptibility-guided tailored therapy obtained higher eradication rates than empiric groups, independent of CYP2C19 genotype detection (with CYP: RR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.09-1.23; without CYP: RR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.01-1.28). Both molecular test-based and culture-based tailored groups were better on eradication rates than empiric groups (molecular: RR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.11-1.35; culture: RR = 1.13, 95% CI 1.06-1.20). Compared with empiric chosen treatments, tailored therapy is a better alternative for H pylori eradication.

Diagnostic Methods of Helicobacter pylori Infection for Epidemiological Studies: Critical Importance of Indirect Test Validation

Among the methods developed to detect H. pylori infection, determining the gold standard remains debatable, especially for epidemiological studies. Due to the decreasing sensitivity of direct diagnostic tests (histopathology and/or immunohistochemistry [IHC], rapid urease test [RUT], and culture), several indirect tests, including antibody-based tests (serology and urine test), urea breath test (UBT), and stool antigen test (SAT) have been developed to diagnose H. pylori infection. Among the indirect tests, UBT and SAT became the best methods to determine active infection. While antibody-based tests, especially serology, are widely available and relatively sensitive, their specificity is low. Guidelines indicated that no single test can be considered as the gold standard for the diagnosis of H. pylori infection and that one should consider the method's advantages and disadvantages. Based on four epidemiological studies, culture and RUT present a sensitivity of 74.2–90.8% and 83.3–86.9% and a specificity of 97.7–98.8% and 95.1–97.2%, respectively, when using IHC as a gold standard. The sensitivity of serology is quite high, but that of the urine test was lower compared with that of the other methods. Thus, indirect test validation is important although some commercial kits propose universal cut-off values.

Modified sequential therapy vs quadruple therapy as initial therapy in patients with Helicobacter infection

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of modified sequential therapy and to compare modified sequential therapy with standard quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication.

METHODS: In total, 200 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with H. pylori-infected chronic gastritis by electronic endoscopy and rapid urease testing from December 2012 to October 2013 were enrolled in this study. The patients had not previously received H. pylori eradication treatment, and were randomized into two groups. The patients in Group A (n = 101) were treated with ilaprazole + bismuth potassium citrate + amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium + levofloxacin, and the patients in Group B (n = 99) were administered a modified sequential therapy composed of ilaprazole at 5 mg bid and amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium at 914 mg for the first five days followed by ilaprazole at 5 mg bid, furazolidone at 100 mg bid and levofloxacin at 500 mg qid for the next five days. Four to six weeks after the end of treatment, a 14C-urea breath test was performed for all the subjects to confirm the eradication of H. pylori. The intention-to-treat and per-protocol eradication rates were determined.

RESULTS: A total of 190 of the 200 patients completed the study. All 200 patients were included in the intention-to-treat analysis, whereas 190 patients were included in the per-protocol analysis. In the intention-to-treat analysis, the rates of H. pylori eradication in Groups A and B were 85.15% (86/101) and 81.82% (81/99), respectively. In the per-protocol analysis, the H. pylori eradication rates in Groups A and B were 88.66% (86/97) and 87.09% (81/93), respectively. No significant difference was observed (χ² = 0.109, P = 0.741) in the eradication rate between Groups A and B. The rates of adverse effects observed in the groups were similar at 6.19% (6/97) for Group A and 7.53% (7/93) for Group B (P > 0.05). No mortality or major morbidities were observed in any of the patients. Symptomatic improvements in the presentation of stomachache, acid regurgitation, and burning sensation were not significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSION: Ilaprazole-based 10-d standard quadruple therapy does not offer an incremental benefit over modified sequential therapy for the treatment of H. pylori infection, as both treatment regimens appear to be effective, safe, and well-tolerated as initial treatment options.

Meta-analysis of the effectiveness of esomeprazole in gastroesophageal reflux disease and Helicobacter pylori infection

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the most widely used classes of drugs. However, the quantum clinical benefit of newer and more expensive PPIs over the older generation PPIs remains uncertain. This meta-analysis sought to assess the clinical and safety profiles of esomeprazole versus omeprazole at pharmacologically equivalent doses in healing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease and eradicating Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

METHODS

PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials comparing esomeprazole with omeprazole at all doses up to February 2015. Trials were assessed by two reviewers for eligibility according to predefined study inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random effects model, and heterogeneity in the estimated effects was investigated using meta-regression. Sensitivity analysis was performed to test the robustness of the findings.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Fifteen trials were included and none of which compared esomeprazole with omeprazole in peptic ulcer disease. The included studies had not evaluated esomeprazole 20 mg versus omeprazole 40 mg. In GERD, esomeprazole 40 mg (relative risk (RR) = 1·07; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·02 to 1·12) and 20 mg (RR=1·04; 95% CI 1·01 to 1·08) significantly improved esophagitis healing when compared with omeprazole 20 mg at week 8. The corresponding numbers needed to treat were 17 and 30, respectively. No significant difference was observed between esomeprazole 20 mg and omeprazole 20 mg at week 4. In H. pylori eradication, there was no difference in the treatment effects between esomeprazole 20 mg and omeprazole 20 mg (RR = 1·01;95% CI 0·96 to 1·05). Their safety profiles were comparable.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

Esomeprazole demonstrated better esophagitis healing rate in patients with GERD than omeprazole at week 8. However, this clinical advantage diminished when both drugs were given at the same doses at week 4. Superiority of esomeprazole was not observed in the H. pylori eradication rates.

Appropriate first-line regimens to combat Helicobacter pylori antibiotic resistance: an Asian perspective

Asia has the largest population of any continent and the highest incidence of gastric cancer in the world, making it very important in the context of Helicobacter pylori infection. According to current guidelines, standard triple therapy containing a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and two antibiotics; amoxicillin (AMX) and clarithromycin (CAM) or metronidazole (MNZ), is still the preferred first-line regimen for treatment of H. pylori infection. However, the efficacy of legacy triple regimens has been seriously challenged, and they are gradually becoming ineffective. Moreover, some regions in Asia show patterns of emerging antimicrobial resistance. More effective regimens including the bismuth and non-bismuth quadruple, sequential, and dual-concomitant (hybrid) regimens are now replacing standard triple therapies as empirical first-line treatments on the basis of the understanding of the local prevalence of H. pylori antimicrobial resistance. Selection of PPI metabolized by the non-enzymatic pathway or minimal first pass metabolism and/or increasing dose of PPI are important to increase H. pylori eradication rates. Therefore, local antibiotic resistance surveillance updates, selection of appropriate first-line regimens with non-enzymatic PPI and/or increased doses of PPI, and detailed evaluation of patients' prior antibiotic usage are all essential information to combat H. pylori antibiotic resistance in Asia.