Bismuth subsalicylate is actually a compound that is made by combining two different substances Bismuth and Salicylic acid. It works by forming a soothing and protective coating of your stomach and intestine. It can be used for the symptomatic relief of heartburn, indigestion, nausea, upset stomach and diarrhoea.
Yes Bismuth Subsalicylate, the active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol, has been clinically proven to be effective across heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, nausea and diarrhoea. A total of 56 clinical studies were conducted between the 1970s and 2007 and meet the criteria of being randomised, double blind, and placebo or active controlled.
Originally developed by a doctor in the early 20th century, the "pink stuff" has been treating a variety of stomach symptoms for generations. We’re not exactly sure why this doctor chose pink, but we know that we’re not going to mess with a good thing.
The name Pepto-Bismol was first used in 1919 in the USA to reflect the ingredients used in the original formulation. Since then, the brand has evolved and expanded but the name has stayed the same.
Pepto-Bismol is indicated in adults and adolescents aged 16 years and over for symptomatic relief of heartburn, indigestion, nausea and upset stomach (due to overindulgence in food and drink). Also controls diarrhoea.
Pepto-Bismol contains the active ingredient bismuth subsalicylate. It works by forming a soothing and protective coating on your stomach and intestine. It is used in adults and adolescents aged 16 years and over, for the relief of the symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, nausea and upset stomach (due to overindulgence in food and drink). Also controls diarrhoea.
No. Pepto-Bismol is only recommended for adults and adolescents aged 16 years and over.
Shake the bottle well before use. For oral use only.
Adults and children 16 years and over only: One dose of Pepto-Bismol is 30ml. Pour 30 ml of product into the cup provided and swallow. Repeat dose every 30-60 minutes if needed. Do not take more than 8 doses in 24 hours. Do not exceed the stated dose. Do not take for more than 2 days. Only use as directed.
Use for longer than 2 days, or in higher doses than recommended has been associated with an increased risk of severe side effects.
If you have diarrhoea, it is important to prevent or treat dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids or taking oral rehydration products, especially if you are frail or elderly.
Pepto-Bismol can be taken before or after meals, on either an empty or full stomach.
It’s the medicine reacting with the sulfur that is naturally present in your mouth and digestive tract. Depending on how much sulfur is present at any given time determines if and to what extent you’ll see the discoloration. We know it’s a bit odd, but it just means Pepto Bismol is working: coating your stomach (and intestines) to provide multi-symptom relief. This will go away within a few days after you stop taking Pepto-Bismol. If these symptoms do not disappear after 3 days of stopping product use, seek medical advice.
If you get any side effects, including any not listed here, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side-effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Store at room temperature. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Do not use after the expiry date shown in the bottle. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
Pepto-Bismol can be taken if it is still within the expiry date shown on the bottle. Do not use after the expiry date. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
This medicine contains 4.1mg sodium in each 30ml dose, and therefore can be considered essentially sodium free.
Whilst there are no gluten containing ingredients in Pepto-Bismol the product has not been tested for presence of gluten and therefore is not certified as gluten free.
Whilst there are no egg, nut or lactose containing ingredients in Pepto-Bismol the product has not been tested for the presence of eggs / nuts / lactose and therefore is not certified as free from.