Can I take the 4-combination medication during my menstrual period?

　　"4-in-1" refers to quadruple therapy, a drug combination commonly used in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection. Quadruple therapy may be taken under medical supervision during menstruation if there is no drug allergy and no severe menstrual discomfort. However, it should be avoided if there is gastrointestinal bleeding or allergy to any of its components. If any abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is advised. Detailed explanation is as follows:

　　Quadruple therapy includes antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, and bismuth compounds. If there is no drug allergy and no severe abdominal pain or diarrhea during menstruation, a doctor may prescribe quadruple therapy after evaluation, which may effectively eradicate Helicobacter pylori. However, it is important to note that gastrointestinal side effects caused by antibiotics might overlap with menstrual symptoms. It is recommended to start medication in the early phase of the menstrual cycle to minimize discomfort.

　　If severe abdominal pain accompanied by black stool, hematemesis, or a history of peptic ulcer bleeding occurs during menstruation, antibiotics and bismuth compounds in quadruple therapy might exacerbate mucosal irritation or interfere with the assessment of bleeding. Additionally, patients allergic to any component of the prescription, such as amoxicillin or clarithromycin, should discontinue the therapy and switch to an alternative treatment plan.

　　Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your current menstrual status. To reduce gastric irritation, avoid taking the medication on an empty stomach or before meals. If abnormal bleeding, persistent vomiting, or drug allergy occurs, stop taking the medication immediately and return for re-evaluation.