Pytest (Oral)

Urea C 14 is a radiopharmaceutical. It is used to diagnose stomach ulcers caused by a specific type of bacteria known as Helicobacter pylori or H. pylori.

This agent is taken by mouth. If any H. pylori bacteria are present in the stomach, they will break down the urea C 14 into radioactive carbon dioxide gas. When you breathe out through your mouth, the amount of radioactive carbon dioxide can be measured to check for the bacteria in your stomach.

This agent is a radioactive agent. However, with the small amounts in the capsule used for the test, the radiation your body receives is very low and is considered safe.

This agent is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of a doctor with specialized training in nuclear medicine.

There are usually no special precautions to follow for radiopharmaceuticals when they are used in small amounts for diagnosis.

In deciding to use a diagnostic test, any risks of the test must be balanced with the benefits it provides. This decision will be made between you and your doctor. Additionally, other factors may influence test results. For this test, consider the following:

Allergies

Inform your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reactions to this medicine or any other medicines. Also, let your healthcare professional know if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients closely.

Pediatric

The amount of radiation in this agent is very low and is considered safe for children. However, be sure to discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of exposing your child to radiation.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women to determine the risk to infants when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Some medicines should not be used together at all, while in other cases, two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction is possible. In these situations, your doctor might want to adjust the dose, or other precautions may be needed. Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used around the time of eating food or specific types of food due to potential interactions. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also lead to interactions. Discuss with your healthcare professional how to use your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

Having other medical problems may affect the use of this diagnostic test. Make sure to inform your doctor if you have any other medical issues, especially:

• Stomach surgery—The lack of acid in the stomach may interfere with the results of this test.

Along with its necessary effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. This agent does not usually cause any side effects. However, if you notice any unusual effects, check with your doctor.

In the U.S.

• Pytest

Available Dosage Forms:

• Capsule

Therapeutic Class: Diagnostic Agent, Helicobactor Pylori, Breath Test

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.