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Bismuth Subsalicylate: uses, side effects & brands
Bismuth subsalicylate soothes indigestion, nausea and mild diarrhoea. It belongs to the Prokinetic & digestive (extra) group. These help the stomach empty, calm the gut, or restore gut balance.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Prokinetic & digestive (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Indigestion, heartburn and nausea
- Mild diarrhoea, including traveller's diarrhoea
- Upset stomach
- Part of some H. pylori treatment combinations
Common brand names
- India: Pepto-Bismol, Bismuth
- Worldwide: Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate
Common side effects
- Black tongue or black stools (harmless)
- Constipation
- Ringing in the ears with too much
Before taking it — precautions
- Not for children or teenagers recovering from flu or chickenpox (risk of Reye's syndrome)
- It contains a salicylate: tell your doctor about aspirin allergy, blood thinners or other aspirin-type medicines
- Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a doctor advises; tell your doctor about kidney disease
When to see a doctor urgently
- Ringing in the ears or hearing loss: stop taking it
- Vomiting blood or bloody diarrhoea (urgent)
- Diarrhoea with high fever or lasting more than two days
Frequently asked questions
Are black stools normal with it?
Yes, harmless black stools and tongue are expected. But black, tarry stools with weakness or dizziness could be bleeding and need a doctor.
Is it like aspirin?
It contains salicylate, related to aspirin, so people allergic to aspirin or on blood thinners should avoid it.
Can children take it?
Children and teenagers should not take it unless a doctor advises, because of the Reye's syndrome risk.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.