How to take pepto bismol for diarrhea

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.

Pepto-Bismol can be taken as a tablet or liquid, depending on which one you prefer.

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 (mBCQT).

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

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Pepto-Bismol if you are allergic to bismuth subsalicylate, or if you have:

• black or bloody stools;
• a stomach ulcer (unless your doctor has prescribed Pepto-Bismol as part of modified bismuth-containing quadruple therapy);
• bleeding problems; or
• if you are allergic to salicylates such as aspirin, Doan's Extra Strength, Salflex, Tricosal, and others.

Do not give this medicine to a child or teenager with a fever, flu symptoms, or chickenpox. Salicylates can cause Reye's syndrome, a serious and sometimes fatal condition in children.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:

• 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.

How should I take Pepto-Bismol?

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.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since bismuth subsalicylate is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

Do not take more than 8 doses per day.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include weakness, depression, anxiety, feeling irritable, problems with balance or coordination, confusion, tremors, or jerky muscle movements.

What should I avoid while taking Pepto-Bismol?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking other antacids or diarrhea medicine, or taking medicine that may contain a salicylate (such as aspirin, salsalate, magnesium salicylate, choline salicylate, diflunisal, Ecotrin, Tricosal, Trilisate, and others).

Pepto-Bismol side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

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

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

Common side effects include:

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?

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

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Pepto-Bismol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Frequently asked questions

View more FAQ

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is an over-the-counter treatment for diarrhea, upset stomach, and nausea. Sometimes referred to as "the pink stuff," Pepto-Bismol is safe and effective for short-term use.

Side effects of Pepto-Bismol are generally mild and can include a black tongue, black stool, and constipation. More serious side effects can occur but are rare. This article discusses Pepto-Bismol, how it works, and potential side effects.

Uses

Pepto-Bismol is primarily used for the short-term treatment of the following digestive symptoms in adults and children aged 12 and older:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Stomach upset
• Indigestion
• Heartburn
• Excessive intestinal gas
• Excessive burping
• A feeling of fullness caused by eating too much
• Discomfort from drinking too much alcohol

Interestingly, researchers have found that when Pepto-Bismol is combined with antibiotics, it can be quite effective in treating Helicobacter pylori, an infection that has been linked to peptic ulcers and gastritis.

How Pepto-Bismol Works

The scientific name for the active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is bismuth subsalicylate. Bismuth is a mineral that has antibacterial, antacid, and antidiarrheal effects. Subsalicylate is a medication in the same class as aspirin.

The active ingredients of Pepto-Bismol are thought to have the following actions within the body:

• Increasing the amount of fluid that is absorbed in the intestines, therefore firming up stool
• Reducing inflammation
• Calming intestinal spasms
• Reducing the population of disease-causing bacteria and/or viruses
• Reducing excess levels of stomach acid

Side Effects

Pepto-Bismol is considered quite safe for short-term use by adults and children aged 12 or over.

Common Side Effects

When used properly, Pepto-Bismol has a few side effects:

• Blackening of the tongue
• Dark or black stool
• Constipation

These side effects are temporary and generally harmless.

Can Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate Turn Your Stool Black?

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects of Pepto-Bismol are rare but not unheard of.

Adults over the age of 65: The side effect of constipation may lead to a bowel blockage, a serious condition.

Children and teens: Pepto-Bismol is in the aspirin family. Aspirin use in children and teenagers is associated with a risk of Reye's syndrome, a potentially life-threatening illness. This risk is particularly high for those who have chickenpox, influenza (the flu), or any other type of viral infection.​

Pepto Kids, a formulation made for children, does not contain bismuth subsalicylate and is safe for children. Pepto Kids is designed to treat heartburn and upset stomach in children.

When To Call Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your healthcare provider immediately and stop taking Pepto-Bismol if you experience:

• Ringing in the ears
• Diarrhea that lasts for more than two days
• Severe vomiting
• High fever
• Any signs of an allergic reaction

If you think you have taken an overdose or are experiencing any severe symptoms, seek immediate attention by calling an ambulance.

Before Taking

Pepto-Bismol is only recommended for use for a two-day period. That, therefore, makes it a poor choice as a treatment for people who experience chronic diarrhea, common in those with IBS. It also makes it a poor choice for people who experience chronic heartburn or acid reflux from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Before taking Pepto-Bismol, it is essential that you clear it with your healthcare provider, as the medication may interact with other medications that you are taking, particularly some medications for diabetes or gout, blood thinners, and certain antibiotics.

Precautions and Contraindications

Pepto-Bismol should not be taken by anyone who:

• Is younger than 12 years of age
• Has the flu
• Has a fever and signs of blood in the stool
• Has chickenpox or has received the chickenpox vaccination within the past six weeks
• Is pregnant
• Is breastfeeding
• Is allergic to aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Dosage

Pepto-Bismol is an oral medication that comes in liquid, tablet, or chewable form. Follow the directions and dosing recommendations on the product packaging carefully.

You do not need to take the medication with food. Do not take Pepto-Bismol for more than two days. Be sure to drink plenty of water while taking Pepto-Bismol to replace fluid lost from diarrhea episodes.

A Word From Verywell

Although it may be tempting to take Pepto-Bismol to address irritable bowel symptoms, remember that it is only recommended for a maximum of two days. Thus, it is best only for short-term symptoms, and long-term use may enhance side effects. When you're experiencing chronic symptoms, work with your healthcare provider to find a better solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the side effects of Pepto-Bismol?

  The most common side effect of Pepto-Bismol is a black tongue or black stools. Both are harmless. Pepto-Bismol contains a non-toxic metal called bismuth that, when mixed with sulfur (a naturally occurring mineral in the body), forms a black substance called bismuth sulfide.

• Can Pepto-Bismol cause severe side effects?

  On rare occasions, Pepto-Bismol has been known to cause potentially serious side effects. Call your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following after taking Pepto-Bismol:

  • Severe vomiting
  • Blood in the stool (usually mild)
  • Coffee ground-like vomit (a sign of gastric bleeding)
  • Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears)
    

  Learn More: When to See a Healthcare Provider About Vomiting

• Who should not take Pepto-Bismol?

  Pepto-Bismol is contraindicated for use in people with the following conditions:

  • Aspirin allergy
  • Gastric ulcer
  • Hematochezia (bloody stools)
  • Hemophilia
  • Flu-like symptoms (for children and teens only due to the risk of Reye's syndrome)

  Also, children under age 12 should not take regular Pepto-Bismol; children under 2 shouldn't be given Pepto Kids.

• Is Pepto-Bismol safe during pregnancy?

  Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate, a drug that is generally avoided during the third trimester as it increases the risk of uterine bleeding. There remains considerable debate about the actual risk, but it may be best to avoid Pepto-Bismol just to be safe.

• What drugs interact with Pepto-Bismol?

  Pepto-Bismol can potentially interact with a wide range of medications. Let your healthcare provider know if you take any of the following before starting Pepto-Bismol:

  • Arthritis or gout medications
  • Blood thinners like warfarin
  • Daily aspirin
  • Diabetes medications
  • Tetracycline antibiotics

• What are the alternatives to Pepto-Bismol?

  There are several over-the-counter alternatives to Pepto-Bismol based on the symptom being treated:

  • Heartburn can be relieved with antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
  • Indigestion can be relieved with Alka-Seltzer (sodium bicarbonate) or Mylanta (simethicone)
  • Constipation can be treated with stool softeners and osmotic, stimulant, or bulk-forming laxatives
  • Diarrhea can be treated with Imodium (loperamide)
  • Nausea may be treated with Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) or Bonine (meclizine).

  Learn More: Natural Remedies to Soothe Indigestion

• How long does it take Pepto-Bismol to work?

  Pepto-Bismol generally starts to work within 30 minutes to an hour. If you aren't feeling relief after an hour, you can take a second dose.

  How much Pepto

  For diarrhea or upset stomach:.

  Adults and teenagers—The usual dose is 2 tablets every half-hour to one hour. You should not take more than 16 tablets in twenty-four hours..

  Children—Should not be used in children younger than 12 years of age..

  Will Pepto

  Imodium A-D and Pepto-Bismol are effective and convenient treatment options for diarrhea in adults. They can help to lower the frequency of watery and loose stools. And Pepto-Bismol can provide relief for an upset stomach, too.

  Can I eat Pepto

  Should I take Pepto-Bismol with or without food? Pepto-Bismol can be taken either with or without food. Use as directed for relief of travelers' diarrhea, diarrhea or upset stomach due to overindulgence in food and drink, including: heartburn, indigestion, nausea, gas, belching and fullness.

  When should you not take Pepto

  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.