Question:
I tested positive for the H.Pylori bacteria.Has anyone else?

I only have a supplimental med plan,and the cost of the medicine I need cost 260.00 with the discount.Do anyone know of a cheaper medicine?    — Tanya H. (posted on March 20, 2003)

March 20, 2003
Hey Tonya! I was tested for H. pylori long ago. Did they do a Endoscopy and a biopsy? This is the only way to know for sure if you have it. H. Pylori is a bacteria found in the stomach. It can cause symptoms resembling uclers. A biopsy is generally the only way to know for sure. I know the course of treatment is a course of antibiotics and either Prilosec or Nexium at the same time for about 30 days. Is this what you are referring too? If so, here are some sugestion: I know that they usually prescribe Penicillin or Amoxicillin. As for the other here you go: Prilosec (the other pruple pill) can run approx. $101.25. However they did just develope a generic for Prilosec. It is Omeprazole. It is white instead of pruple and I'm told it is the same thing. I now take Nexium which runs with out insurance, $149.79, for 30 days supply. I would make sure if I were you that it is H. Pylori. Prilosec is no longer available in the sample form. Omeprazole is new and you might be able to ask you doctor is he has samples. And the same with Nexium. It too is somewhat new and your doctor might have samples. Sales people from pharmaceutical companies give doctors loads of samples of different drugs to try and they might have the antibiotics and Nexium and Omeprazole on hand. This is how the drug companies get their product out there to be used. It doesn't hurt to ask. Also you might explain your plight to them and ask them if you can purchase your meds from them. They can get them for you at a discount. I know here in Pa we have this government plan that allows people with no ins. to do that. Let me know how you make out! God Bless and God Speed!
   — Donna R.

March 20, 2003
Endoscopy is NOT the only way to diagnose H. Pylori. It can be done now by a simple blood test. You really need to get it treated. If you do it right, it should be gone.
   — Dana S.