dyspepsia (H.pylori test and treat strategy)

Last edited 03/2019 and last reviewed 06/2021

  • a patient with documented peptic ulcer disease (duodenal or gastric) should have a test for Helicobacter pylori

  • if the test is positive use eradication therapy (1)

  • if the test is negative and/or the patient remains symptomatic then:
    • it is appropriate to use a proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
    • the lowest dose of the PPI that provides symptomatic relief should be used

The use of test and treat strategy in univestigated dyspepsia in primary care is discussed in the linked NICE guideline.

Reference:

  1. BSG (2002) Dyspepsia management guidelines.
  2. NICE (September 2014).Dyspepsia and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.