Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)

NHS information about the medicine Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate), including what it's used for, who can use it, how to use it and side effects.

What Pepto-Bismol is for

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is used to treat symptoms such as:

• indigestion
• acid reflux and heartburn
• feeling sick (nausea)
• diarrhoea

It works by reducing inflammation and forming a protective coating in your stomach, the lower part of your food pipe and your gut.

How to take Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) usually comes as a liquid you swallow or tablets you chew. You can take it with or without food.

Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.

Side effects of Pepto-Bismol

Like all medicines, Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

Possible side effects of Pepto-Bismol include:

• black poo
• a black tongue

These side effects are harmless and usually go away on their own.

Pepto-Bismol will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery.

More about side effects

You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card Scheme website

Who can and cannot take Pepto-Bismol

Most people aged 16 years or older can take Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate).

Do not give Pepto-Bismol to children aged 15 years or under because it can cause a serious condition called Reye's syndrome in rare cases.

Pepto-Bismol is not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if you:

• have had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from bismuth subsalicylate before
• have had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from aspirin before
• have blood in your poo
• have a blood clotting disorder
• have gout
• have a stomach ulcer

Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can use it.

Breastfeeding and Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-Bismol is not usually recommended if you're breastfeeding.

Check with a pharmacist or doctor before using Pepto-Bismol while you're breastfeeding. They may be able to recommend a different medicine.

Pregnancy and Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-Bismol is not usually recommended during pregnancy.

Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before taking Pepto-Bismol while you're pregnant. They may be able to recommend a different medicine.

Taking Pepto-Bismol with other medicines, food and drink

There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate).

These include:

• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen
• anticoagulants, such as warfarin and apixaban
• methotrexate, a medicine for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis or cancer
• some antibiotics, such as doxycycline
• some antidepressants
• some medicines for gout
• some medicines for diabetes

Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can take it.

Food, drink and alcohol with Pepto-Bismol

You can eat and drink as usual when taking Pepto-Bismol.

Find out more about your medicine

To find out more about your medicine, you can:

• check the leaflet that comes with it
• speak to a pharmacist or doctor for advice