Helidac Therapy is a combination medication provided in a kit. The kit contains bismuth subsalicylate, used to treat digestive upset, and the antibiotics metronidazole and tetracycline hydrochloride. Doctors prescribe this medication to treat infection with Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that causes stomach and intestinal ulcers. Each dose contains two bismuth pills and one of each of the antibiotics. Several side effects are possible with Helidac Therapy.
Digestive Side Effects
Digestive side effects may occur with Helidac Therapy. Some patients experience metallic taste, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, lack of appetite, indigestion or nausea. Severe diarrhea or cramps may be a sign of colitis, a possible side effect of antibiotics. Colitis symptoms should be evaluated by a physician. Although discoloration of the tongue and the stools may develop, this is usually not a cause for concern. However, if you take this medication and your tongue turns black or hairy, or if your stools become pale or black and tarry, these effects call for immediate medical attention.
Photosensitivity
Both metronidazole and tetracycline can cause photosensitivity, or extra sensitivity to ultraviolet light. This increases the risk of severe sunburn. PDR Health, a website from the publishers of the Physicians' Desk Reference, cautions against prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light while taking Helidac Therapy. This includes sunlight, sunlamps and tanning booths.
Neurological Side Effects
Neurological side effects can occur when taking Helidac Therapy, according to the Monthly Prescribing Reference. They include headaches, dizziness, insomnia, lack of energy, ringing in the ears and tingling or numb sensations. More serious effects are unlikely, but some patients develop blurred vision or vision changes, depression, loss of coordination, speech problems, seizures, or severe headache, which may be a sign of increased pressure in the skull, known as pseudotumor cerebri. These serious side effects call for immediate medical attention.
Alcohol-Related Side Effects
Drinking alcohol while taking metronidazole usually causes disagreeable effects, including abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting. Headaches and flushing also may occur.
Side Effects in Youngsters
Because Helidac Therapy contains tetracycline, it should not be given to children younger than 8 years of age because it can cause softening of tooth enamel and permanent tooth discoloration. In addition, because bismuth subsalicylate is an aspirin-like medicine, it can cause a serious illness known as Reye syndrome if taken by children or teenagers with any type of viral infection.
Candida Infection
Antibiotics kill friendly bacteria as well as harmful bacteria, which can cause imbalances in the intestinal flora and lead to candida, or yeast infections. Symptoms include vaginal odor or discharge or white patches in the mouth or on the tongue along with mouth soreness or discomfort.
Allergic Reaction
Although it is uncommon, some people experience an allergic reaction to the antibiotics in Helidac Therapy. Signs include a rash, hives, itching, breathing trouble, tightness in the chest, or swelling of the face, mouth or tongue. An allergic reaction to this medication should be considered a medical emergency.
