bismuth subsalicylate

Brand name(s):

Bismarex, Bismatrol, Bismatrol Maximum Strength, Childrens Kaopectate, Kao-Tin Bismuth Subsalicylate Formula, Kaopectate, Kapectolin (New Formula), Maalox Total Stomach Relief, Peptic Relief, Pepto-Bismol, Pepto-Bismol Maximum Strength, Pink Bismuth

What is the most important information I should know about bismuth subsalicylate?

This medication should not be given to a child or teenager who has a fever, especially if the child also has flu symptoms or chicken pox. Salicylates can cause a serious and sometimes fatal condition called Reye's syndrome in children. You should not use bismuth subsalicylate if you have a stomach ulcer, a recent history of stomach or intestinal bleeding, or if you are allergic to salicylates such as aspirin, Doan's Extra Strength, Salflex, Tricosal, and others.

Do not take more than 8 doses in one day (24 hours).

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

This medication can also cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests, thyroid scans, or stomach x-rays. Tell any doctor who treats you that you have recently taken bismuth subsalicylate.

What is bismuth subsalicylate?

Bismuth subsalicylate is an anti-diarrhea medication and antacid.

Bismuth subsalicylate is used to treat diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach.

Bismuth subsalicylate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking bismuth subsalicylate?

This medication should not be given to a child or teenager who has a fever, especially if the child also has flu symptoms or chicken pox. Subsalicylate can cause a serious and sometimes fatal condition called Reye's syndrome in children. You should not use bismuth subsalicylate if you have:

a stomach ulcer;
a recent history of stomach or intestinal bleeding; or
if you are allergic to salicylates such as aspirin, Doan's Extra Strength, Salflex, Tricosal, and others.

Before taking bismuth subsalicylate, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

fever;
mucus in your stools;
diabetes;
arthritis; or
gout.

Do not take bismuth subsalicylate without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. Bismuth subsalicylate can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take bismuth subsalicylate?

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.

Shake the liquid medicine well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

Do not take more than 8 doses in one day (24 hours).

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

This medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests, thyroid scans, or stomach x-rays. Tell any doctor who treats you that you have recently taken bismuth subsalicylate.

Store bismuth subsalicylate at room temperature away from moisture, heat, or freezing temperature.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since bismuth subsalicylate is taken as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Do not take more than 8 doses in one day (24 hours).

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