Final answer:
To eradicate H. pylori, at least three drugs are usually prescribed, comprising a combination of two antibiotics and one acid-reducing medication. The triple therapy aims to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains and should be completed as directed to ensure effective treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
To effectively eradicate H. pylori, a minimum of three drugs are usually required in treatment protocols. The US Food and Drug Administration suggests using a triple therapy approach which involves two antibiotics and a medication to reduce stomach acid, enhancing the antibacterial effects.
Antibiotic resistance is a significant concern in the treatment of H. pylori, emphasizing the importance of completing the full course of medication as prescribed to prevent the development of resistant strains. Discontinuing medication early can lead to under-treatment, which fails to clear the infection entirely and may contribute to resistance.
Furthermore, while the goal is to eliminate H. pylori to prevent conditions such as peptic ulcers, there's a delicate balance as its eradication could potentially increase the risk of certain other conditions, highlighting the importance of a tailored approach to treatment. Narrow-spectrum antimicrobial drugs are often preferred to minimize the effects on the body's normal microbiota and reduce the chance of further resistance.