Pepto-Bismol is an oral suspension containing bismuth subsalicylate 17.5mg/ml that relieves indigestion, heartburn, nausea, upset stomach and diarrhoea by forming a soothing protective coating over the stomach lining, 120ml bottle for adults aged 16 and over, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).
Key facts
| Active ingredient | Bismuth subsalicylate 17.5mg/ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Bismuth antidiarrhoeal and stomach protectant (contains salicylate) |
| Format | Oral suspension (liquid) |
| Pack | 120ml bottle with measuring cup |
| Relieves | Indigestion, heartburn, nausea, upset stomach and diarrhoea |
| Age | Adults and teenagers aged 16 years and over |
| Dose | 30ml per dose; maximum 8 doses (240ml) in 24 hours |
| Sold by | Ways Pharmacy, UK (GPhC-registered) |
Who it is for
- Adults and teenagers 16 and over with indigestion, heartburn or an upset stomach
- People with nausea or short-lived diarrhoea who want relief from several symptoms in one product
- People who prefer a liquid that coats and soothes the stomach
Not suitable for: children and teenagers under 16; anyone allergic to salicylates (such as aspirin) or the other ingredients. Speak to your pharmacist before use if you take other medicines (especially blood thinners or other salicylates), have gout or diabetes, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How to use
- Read the patient information leaflet on the pack before you start.
- Shake the bottle well before use.
- Adults and teenagers 16 and over: take 30ml per dose using the measuring cup.
- Repeat every 30 minutes to 1 hour if needed; do not exceed 8 doses (240ml) in 24 hours.
- Do not use for more than 2 days without speaking to a doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How does Pepto-Bismol work?
Its active ingredient, bismuth subsalicylate, forms a soothing protective coating over the stomach lining to reduce irritation, and helps settle nausea, indigestion and short-lived diarrhoea.
Why does Pepto-Bismol turn my tongue or stool black?
A temporary, harmless darkening of the tongue or stool can happen with bismuth. It is not a cause for concern and clears once you stop taking it.
How long can I take Pepto-Bismol?
Use it for no more than 2 days without medical advice. If your symptoms persist beyond 2 days, stop and consult a doctor.
Can children take Pepto-Bismol?
No. Because it contains a salicylate, Pepto-Bismol is not suitable for children or teenagers under 16, who are at risk of Reye’s syndrome.
Can I take Pepto-Bismol with aspirin?
Pepto-Bismol contains a salicylate. Do not take it if you are allergic to aspirin, and check with your pharmacist before combining it with aspirin or other salicylate-containing medicines.
Safety and storage
- Always read the patient information leaflet before use, as manufacturers update it regularly.
- Do not use if allergic to salicylates (such as aspirin), and not for under-16s.
- The harmless darkening of the tongue or stool is expected and reversible.
- Speak to your pharmacist before use if you take blood thinners, other salicylates, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Store as directed on the pack, keep out of the sight and reach of children, and do not use after the expiry date.
References
This page provides factual information about an over-the-counter medicine that contains a salicylate. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. Do not use for more than 2 days without medical advice, and not in under-16s. Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.
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