An important update in Brazilian medicine has changed the way a very common bacteria in the stomach is treated: Helicobacter pylori (or simply H. pylori).

It is linked to problems such as gastritis, ulcers and even stomach cancer. And now, in 2026, the main treatment is no longer the same as before.

What is this bacteria?

H. pylori is a bacteria that lives in the stomach.

Many people have it and don't even know.

In some cases, it can cause symptoms such as:

  • Pain or burning in the stomach

  • Feeling of bloating

  • Nausea

  • Frequent heartburn

But the biggest problem is when it goes untreated for a long time, as it can cause lesions in the stomach.

What changed in the treatment?

For many years, the most commonly used treatment was a combination of 3 medicines (known as "triple therapy").

Now that has changed.

Doctors have started to avoid this regimen as a first option because it stopped working as well as it did before.

The main reason is that the bacteria became more resistant to one of the antibiotics used.

What is the recommended treatment today?

The new guidance indicates a treatment with 4 medicines at the same time.

It includes:

  • A medicine to protect the stomach (such as omeprazole)

  • Bismuth (which helps fight the bacteria)

  • Two different antibiotics

This treatment is given for 10 to 14 days.

Why use more medicines?

It may seem "stronger", but there is a clear reason:

To increase the chances of eliminating the bacteria right the first time

When treatment fails:

  • The bacteria remains in the body

  • Symptoms may return

  • Treatment becomes more difficult afterwards

That is why the new strategy is to be more effective from the start.

Why did the duration of treatment increase?

Before, some treatments were shorter.

Today it is known that this may not be sufficient.

With 10 to 14 days:

  • The chance of cure is greater

  • The risk of the bacteria returning decreases

Are there new developments coming?

Yes. Some studies already show new possibilities for the future, such as:

  • New types of medicines to control stomach acidity

  • Adjustments in antibiotic doses

  • Use of probiotics to help with treatment

But, for now, these options do not yet replace the main treatment.

Attention: do not self-medicate

Even though it is a well-known treatment, it needs to be prescribed by a doctor.

Each person may need a different regimen, depending on:

  • Medical history

  • Previous antibiotic use

  • Reactions to medicines

What does this change mean in practice?

The treatment has become more strategic

The chance of cure has increased

And the focus is now on resolving the problem on the first attempt

In summary

  • H. pylori bacteria is common and can cause stomach problems

  • The old treatment with 3 medicines is being phased out

  • The new standard uses 4 medicines for up to 14 days

  • The change seeks greater effectiveness and fewer failures

If you have already been diagnosed with H. pylori or have frequent stomach symptoms, it is worth talking to a doctor. The treatment has evolved and this makes a difference in the outcome

Dr. Rebeca Soares Andrade CRM-GO 39335