The present invention relates to methods for treating pathological conditions associated with Helicobacter sp infections, specifically H. pylori infection. The present invention further relates to methods for treating pathologies characterized by excess gastric acid secretion. The methods of the present invention comprise oral administration of pentagastrin effective locally in the stomach in conjunction with a gastric proton pump inhibitor. It is disclosed herein for the first time that PG administered orally exerts a local effect in the stomach and may be used in combination with a PPI for treating pathological conditions characterized by excess gastric acid secretion and in pathological conditions associated with Helicobacter sp infections.