Daily OTC Pearl: Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol)

Author(s):

Bismuth subsalicylate comes as a liquid, tablet, or chewable tablet to treat diarrhea and the symptoms of an upset stomach.

OTC/Lifestyle Pearl of the Day: Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol)

Indication: Bismuth subsalicylate is used to treat diarrhea in adults and teenagers.

Insight:

Bismuth subsalicylate is also used to relieve the symptoms of an upset stomach, such as heartburn, indigestion, and nausea in adults and teenagers.
This medicine should not be used in children younger than 12 years of age.
In some patients, bismuth subsalicylate may cause dark tongue and/or grayish black stool. This is only temporary and will go away when use of the medication is stopped.
Bismuth subsalicylate comes as a liquid, tablet, or chewable tablet to be taken by mouth, with or without food.
Swallow the tablets whole and do not chew them.
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.
Drink plenty of water or other beverages to replace fluids that may be lost while having diarrhea.
Dosing:
- Shake before use.
- Use dose cup or tablespoon.
- For adults and children 12 years of age and older: 1 dose (30 ml or 2 TBSP) every half hour to 1 hour as needed.
- Do not exceed 8 doses (240 ml or 16 TBSP) in 24 hours.

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