Which therapy is typically used to treat H. pylori associated with duodenal ulcers?

Duodenal ulcers that are associated with Helicobacter pylori infection are typically treated with a combination therapy that includes proton pump inhibitors and antibiotics. Proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole or lansoprazole, work to reduce gastric acid production, creating a less acidic environment that promotes ulcer healing and enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics. The antibiotic therapy is critical for eradicating H. pylori, as this bacterium is a key contributor to both the development and recurrence of ulcers.

Using a combination of both therapies significantly increases the success rate of treatment and reduces the risk of ulcer recurrence. The fact that solely relying on proton pump inhibitors or antibiotics does not address both the reduction of acid secretion and the eradication of the infection accounts for the effectiveness of the combined therapy approach.