Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)

What it's for

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)

How it's used (previously Dosage and administration)

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)

Side effects

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)

Who it's for

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)

Interactions

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is used to treat symptoms such as indigestion, heartburn, feeling sick (nausea) and diarrhoea.

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) comes as a liquid you swallow or chewable tablets. Always follow the instructions that come with your medicine.

Side effects of Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) include black poo and a black tongue. More serious side effects are rare.

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is suitable for most people aged 16 years or older, but always check before taking it.

Taking Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) with some medicines, like aspirin and anticoagulants, can cause problems. Always check before taking it.

What Pepto-Bismol is for

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is used to treat symptoms such as:

• indigestion
• acid reflux and heartburn
• feeling sick (nausea)
• diarrhoea

It works by reducing inflammation and forming a protective coating in your stomach, the lower part of your food pipe and your gut.

How to take Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) usually comes as a liquid you swallow or tablets you chew. You can take it with or without food.

Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.

How to take different types of Pepto-Bismol

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Important

Do not take Pepto-Bismol for more than 2 days unless advised to by a doctor.

Stop taking it and see a GP if your symptoms get worse or do not get better.

If you take too much Pepto-Bismol

Taking an extra dose of Pepto-Bismol is unlikely to cause problems, but it's important to get medical advice if you take too much as it can be dangerous.

Speak to a pharmacist as soon as possible if:

• you've taken more Pepto-Bismol than it says on the packet or leaflet
• you're taking Pepto-Bismol and start hearing ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus)

If you're unable to speak to a pharmacist, or you took too much of your medicine on purpose, call NHS 111 for advice.

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Information

If you're told to go to A&E, do not drive. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Bring the Pepto-Bismol packet or leaflet inside it, any remaining medicine, and any other medicines you take.

Side effects of Pepto-Bismol

Like all medicines, Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

Possible side effects of Pepto-Bismol include:

• black poo
• a black tongue

These side effects are harmless and usually go away on their own.

Pepto-Bismol will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery.

Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if:

• you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away

They may be able to give you advice about how to reduce any side effects.

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Serious side effects

In rare cases, Pepto-Bismol can cause a serious allergic reaction.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash and difficulty breathing.

Call 999 if:

• you're taking Pepto-Bismol and think you might be having anaphylaxis

Who can and cannot take Pepto-Bismol

Most people aged 16 years or older can take Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate).

Do not give Pepto-Bismol to children aged 15 years or under because it can cause a serious condition called Reye's syndrome in rare cases.

Pepto-Bismol is not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if you:

• have had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from bismuth subsalicylate before
• have had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from aspirin before
• have blood in your poo
• have a blood clotting disorder
• have gout
• have a stomach ulcer

Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can use it.

Breastfeeding and Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-Bismol is not usually recommended if you're breastfeeding.

Check with a pharmacist or doctor before using Pepto-Bismol while you're breastfeeding. They may be able to recommend a different medicine.

Pregnancy and Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-Bismol is not usually recommended during pregnancy.

Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before taking Pepto-Bismol while you're pregnant. They may be able to recommend a different medicine.

Taking Pepto-Bismol with other medicines, food and drink

There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate).

These include:

• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen
• anticoagulants, such as warfarin and apixaban
• methotrexate, a medicine for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis or cancer
• some antibiotics, such as doxycycline
• some antidepressants
• some medicines for gout
• some medicines for diabetes

Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can take it.

Food, drink and alcohol with Pepto-Bismol

You can eat and drink as usual when taking Pepto-Bismol.