This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Who can take Pepto-Bismol
Most adults and young people aged 16 years and over can take Pepto-Bismol.
Who may not be able to take Pepto-BismolDo not take this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Pepto-Bismol is not suitable for some people. To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have:
- ever had an allergic reaction to bismuth subsalicylate or any of the other ingredients in Pepto-Bismol or Pepti Calm
- ever had an allergic reaction to aspirin or any other medicine
- diabetes
- gout
- a rare inherited condition called phenylketonuria where you cannot have aspartame – the chewable tablets contain aspartame
- have a blood clotting disorder
Pepto-Bismol liquid and tablets both contain a colouring called amaranth. Some people can have an allergic reaction to amaranth.
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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