Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-Bismol is used to treat diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, gas, or upset stomach. Pepto-Bismol works as an antacid to reduce excess stomach acid and so eases discomfort. It also works to protect the stomach and lower part of your food pipe (esophagus) from stomach acid.

Introduction

Generic name: Bismuth subsalicylate

Brand names: Bismarex, Bismatrol, Bismatrol Maximum Strength, Kaopectate, etc

Drug class: Antidiarrheals

Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat, do not freeze.

Directions for use

  • Take this medicine exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

  • Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

  • You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

  • Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking this medicine.

  • Do not take more than 8 doses in one day (24 hours).

  • Call your doctor if you still have diarrhea after 2 days of using this medicine.

  • This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using bismuth subsalicylate.

Side effects

Stop taking this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • Changes in behavior with nausea and vomiting

  • Hearing loss or ringing in your ears

  • Diarrhea lasting longer than 2 days

  • Worsened stomach symptoms.

Bismuth subsalicylate can cause you to have a black or darkened tongue. This is a harmless side effect.

Common side effects include:

  • Constipation

  • Dark colored stools

What drugs will affect Pepto-Bismol?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using bismuth subsalicylate with any other medications, especially:

  • Arthritis medicine

  • Gout medicine

  • Insulin or oral diabetes medications

  • A blood thinner–warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven.

Warnings

  • You should not use Pepto-Bismol if you have bleeding problems, blood in your stools, or if you are allergic to aspirin or other salicylates.

  • You should not use Pepto-Bismol for a stomach ulcer unless your ulcer is caused by H. pylori and your doctor has prescribed Pepto-Bismol as part of modified bismuth-containing quadruple therapy.

  • Do not give this medicine to a child or teenager with a fever, flu symptoms, or chickenpox.

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