Pepto Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is used to treat diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, gas, or upset stomach. Pepto Bismol works through a combination of several effects. These include the increased absorption of fluids and electrolytes by the intestinal wall, the reduction of inflammation and irritation of the stomach and intestinal lining, as well as its antacid and bactericidal effects. As an antacid, it works to neutralize acids in the stomach and intestines, which can lead to a decrease of certain symptoms. As a bactericide, it works to kill bacteria in the gut, such as E. coli, a common cause of “traveller’s diarrhea”.
Manufacturer Information
Canadian Pharmacy King offers the brand Pepto Bismol from Canada manufactured by Procter & Gamble. Pepto Bismol is available as chewable tablets and cherry flavour liquid and extra strength cherry flavour liquid.
Common side effects of Pepto Bismol may include constipation or dark coloured stools.
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice more serious side effects such as:
• Changes in behaviour with nausea and vomiting;
• Hearing loss of ringing in your ears (tinnitus);
• Diarrhea that lasts longer than 2 days;
• Worsening of your stomach symptoms;
Pepto Bismol can cause you to have a black or darkened tongue. This is a completely harmless side effect, and will go away after you stop using this medication.
This is not a complete list of side effects. If you notice any other side effects not listed here, please contact your doctor or pharmacist.
You should not use Pepto Bismol if you are allergic to bismuth, if you are allergic to salicylates such as aspirin, or if you have:
• Black or bloody stools;
• A stomach ulcer (unless your doctor has prescribed Pepto Bismol as part of a modified bismuth-containing quadruple therapy);
• Bleeding problems
To make sure this medication is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had mucus in your stools, or if you currently have a fever. Do not give this medication 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. It is not known if this medication will affect an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known if this medication will pass into breastmilk, or if it will harm an nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 12 years old without medical advice. Ask your doctor before taking other antacids or diarrhea medication, or taking medication that may contain a salicylate. Pepto Bismol may interact with several medications, especially arthritis medication, gout medication, insulin or oral diabetes medications, or a blood thinner such as warfarin, Coumadin, or Jantoven. This is not a complete list of interactions, and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are currently taking or have recently taken in order to reduce the risk of any possible interactions.
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