14C-Urea (By mouth)
14C ure-EE-a
Used to test for ulcers.
Drug classes
Diagnostic Agent, Helicobactor Pylori, Breath Test (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Urea C 14 is a radiopharmaceutical. It is used to diagnose stomach ulcers caused by a certain kind 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 cause the urea C 14 to be broken down into radioactive carbon dioxide gas. When you breathe out by the mouth, the amount of radioactive carbon dioxide can be measured to see whether the bacteria are in your stomach.
This agent is a radioactive agent. However, with the small amounts in the capsule that is 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.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Capsule
Do not eat anything for 6 hours before the test.
A healthcare provider will give you 1 capsule to swallow with lukewarm water. Do not touch the capsule with your fingers, because this may cause incorrect test results. Swallow the capsule whole. Do not chew it.
About 10 minutes after you swallowed the capsule, you will give a breath sample by blowing through a straw connected to a balloon. Your breath sample will show if H pylori is in your stomach. H pylori is a bacterium that can cause a stomach ulcer.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Do not use an antibiotic or product that contains bismuth (such as Pepto-Bismol®) 4 weeks before the test. Do not use sucralfate, lansoprazole, or omeprazole 2 weeks before the test. These medicines may cause incorrect test results.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Tell your doctor if you had an allergic reaction to 14C-urea.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
The capsule contains a very small amount of radioactivity that should not cause harmful effects. If you have questions or concerns about this medicine, talk with your doctor.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Pytest
There may be other brand names for this medicine.