Generic name: Bismuth subsalicylate
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea?
Bismuth subsalicylate relieves diarrhea, travelers' diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, gas, or upset stomach.
Bismuth subsalicylate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use bismuth subsalicylate if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
- black or bloody stools;
- stomach ulcer;
- bleeding problems; or
- if you are allergic to salicylates such as aspirin, Doan's Extra Strength, Salflex, Tricosal, and others.
Using this medicine in a child or teenager with flu symptoms or chickenpox can cause a serious or fatal condition called Reye's syndrome.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have or have ever had:
- mucus in your stools; or
- if you currently have a fever.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 12 years old without medical advice.
This medicine may contain phenylalanine and could be harmful if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
How should I use Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea
Use Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid). Measure a dose with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking bismuth subsalicylate.
Taking more than the recommended dose will not make this medicine more effective, and may cause serious side effects.
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.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.
Bismuth subsalicylate is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using bismuth subsalicylate 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; or
- worsened stomach symptoms.
Bismuth subsalicylate may cause you to have a black or darkened tongue. This is a harmless side effect.
Common side effects include:
- constipation; or
- dark colored stools.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking other antacids, diarrhea medicine, or taking medicine that may contain a salicylate (such as aspirin, salsalate, magnesium salicylate, choline salicylate, diflunisal, Ecotrin, Tricosal, Trilisate, and others).