[Rifaximin in combined treatment of the Helicobacter pylori infection in childhood]

Abstract

Aim: To provide a pilot study of empiric rifaximin, bismuth subcitrate, furazolidone/nifuratel triple therapy for H. pylori gastritis in childhood.

Materials and methods: Forty one pediatric outpatients (27 females, mean age 14.5 +/- 1.4 ys) with H. pylori-associated chronic gastritis who underwent endoscopy for dyspeptic symptoms received the combination of bismuth subcitrate (8/mg/kg/day, q. d. s.) for 14 days, rifaximin (800 mg/day) for 10 days and furazolidone (10 mg/kg/day, q. d. s.) or nifuratel (15 mg/kg/two times daily) for 10 days. H. pylori status was determined before the treatment by modified Giemsa staining/urease test and after the treatment (in 4-6 weeks) by ammonia breath test.

Results: H. pylori was eradicated in 35 children (85.4%; 95% CI: 75.4-96.4 ITT and PP tests). There were no serious adverse reactions and were no withdrawals due to any side effects.

Conclusion: The combination of rifaximin, bismuth subcitrate and furazolidone/nifuratel was an effective and tolerable regimen for initial H. pylori eradication.