2003 Volume 53 Issue 4 Pages 413-414
Backgrounds and Aims : We examined the relationship between the existence of Helicobacter pylori (HP) and Kampo medicines used in patients. Methods : In Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University Hospital, we investigated HP infection in patients who were continuously administered Kampo medicines. During upper GI endoscopy, two specimens were obtained from the greater cavature of the antrum and upper body of the stomach, and then were processed for rapid urease test, the CLO-test. Results : Among 34 consecutively enrolled patients, CLO was positive in 18 patients (52.9%). Patients in HP-positive and -negative groups had taken various Kampo medicines for more than one month, and every Kampo medicine except one in both groups contained herbs that had been reported to have an in vitro anti-HP effect. Conclusion : Kampo medicine may not be indicated for eradication therapy for HP in clinical situations.
