We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. Show Chances are you’ve heard of “the pink stuff.” Pepto-Bismol is a well-known over-the-counter medication used to treat digestive problems. If you’re feeling a bit queasy, read on to learn what to expect when taking Pepto-Bismol and how to use it safely. Pepto-Bismol is used to treat diarrhea and relieve the symptoms of an upset stomach. These symptoms can include:
The active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is called bismuth subsalicylate. It belongs to a drug class called salicylates. Pepto-Bismol is available in regular strength as a caplet, chewable tablet, and liquid. It’s available in maximum strength as a liquid and caplet. All forms are taken by mouth. Pepto-Bismol is thought to treat diarrhea by:
The active ingredient, bismuth subsalicylate, also has antacid properties that can help decrease heartburn, upset stomach, and nausea. Adults and children 12 years and older can take the following forms of Pepto-Bismol for up to 2 days. The dosages below apply for all digestive problems Pepto-Bismol can help treat. When treating diarrhea, be sure to drink plenty of water to replace lost fluid. Keep drinking fluids even if you’re using Pepto-Bismol. If your condition lasts longer than 2 days or you have ringing in your ears, stop taking Pepto-Bismol and call your doctor. Liquid suspensionOriginal strength:
Pepto-Bismol Ultra (maximum strength):
Another liquid option is known as Pepto Cherry Diarrhea. This product is designed to only treat diarrhea. It’s not the same product as cherry-flavored Pepto-Bismol Original or Ultra. It’s also for people 12 years and older. Below is the recommended dosage for Pepto Cherry Diarrhea:
Chewable tabletsFor Pepto Chews:
CapletsOriginal caplets:
Ultra caplets:
Pepto Diarrhea caplets:
Pepto Original LiquiCaps or Diarrhea LiquiCaps:
For childrenThe above products and dosages are designed for people 12 years and older. Pepto-Bismol offers a separate product designed for children 12 and under in chewable tablets. This product is designed to treat heartburn and indigestion in young children. Note that the dosages are based on weight and age. Pepto Kids Chewable Tablets:
Most side effects from Pepto-Bismol are mild and go away shortly after you stop taking the medication. More common side effectsThe more common side effects of Pepto-Bismol include:
These side effects are harmless. Both effects are temporary and go away within several days after you stop taking Pepto-Bismol. Serious side effectRinging in your ears is an uncommon but serious side effect of Pepto-Bismol. If you have this side effect, stop taking Pepto-Bismol and call your doctor right away. Pepto-Bismol may interact with any other medications you may be taking. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor to see whether Pepto-Bismol interacts with any medications you take. Examples of medications that can interact with Pepto-Bismol include:
Pepto-Bismol is typically safe for most people, but avoid it if you have certain health conditions. Pepto-Bismol may make them worse. Don’t take Pepto-Bismol if you:
Bismuth subsalicylate may also cause problems for people with other health conditions. Before taking Pepto-Bismol, tell your doctor if you have any of the following medical conditions. They can tell you if it’s safe to use Pepto-Bismol. These conditions include:
Stop taking Pepto-Bismol and call your doctor right away if you have vomiting and extreme diarrhea along with behavior changes, such as:
These symptoms could be early signs of Reye’s syndrome. This is a rare but serious illness that can affect your brain and liver. Avoid using Pepto-Bismol to self-treat diarrhea if you have a fever or stools that contain blood or mucus. If you have these symptoms, call your doctor right away. They could be signs of a serious health condition, such as an infection. In case of overdoseSymptoms of a Pepto-Bismol overdose can include:
If you think you’ve taken too much, call your doctor or local poison control center. If your symptoms are severe, call 911 or local emergency services, or go to the nearest emergency room right away. For many people, Pepto-Bismol is a safe, easy way to relieve common stomach problems. But if you have any concerns about whether Pepto-Bismol is a safe option for you, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist. Also call your doctor if Pepto-Bismol doesn’t ease your symptoms after 2 days. Shop for Pepto-Bismol. How many days after taking PeptoIts active ingredient, bismuth subsalicylate, can cause your stool to turn black or gray. This side effect is harmless and temporary. Your stool color should return to normal within a couple days after you stop taking Pepto Bismol.
What is the half life of bismuth subsalicylate?The terminal half-life of salicylic acid following a single oral dose of 525 mg bismuth subsalicylate is ranges from two to five hours. Bismuth has an intermediate half-life of 5 to 11 days and a terminal half-life of 21 to 72 days.
What does bismuth do to your body?Bismuth subsalicylate is used to treat diarrhea in adults and teenagers. It is also used to relieve the symptoms of an upset stomach, such as heartburn, indigestion, and nausea in adults and teenagers. This medicine is available without a prescription.
What happens if you take Pepto 3 days in a row?Taking too much Pepto-Bismol can increase the risk of side effects, including feeling or being sick, feeling confused, dizzy or tired, deafness, or ringing or buzzing in your ears.
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