How does Pepto-Bismol work. When will you feel better after taking Pepto-Bismol. Are there alternative indigestion medicines available. Will Pepto-Bismol affect contraception. Can you drive or ride a bike while taking Pepto-Bismol. Is it safe to consume alcohol while using Pepto-Bismol. What lifestyle changes can help ease stomach acid.

Understanding Pepto-Bismol: Mechanism of Action and Effectiveness

Pepto-Bismol is a widely recognized over-the-counter medication used to treat various digestive issues. Its exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to work in several ways:

• Forms a protective coating over the lower part of the esophagus and stomach
• Offers protection against stomach acid
• Possesses weak antacid properties

These combined effects help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with indigestion and other gastrointestinal problems. How quickly does Pepto-Bismol take effect? The medication typically begins to work within 30 to 60 minutes after consumption.

Dosage and Frequency

When it comes to dosing, it’s important to follow the recommended guidelines:

• You can take another dose after 30 to 60 minutes if needed
• A maximum of 8 doses can be taken within a 24-hour period

Always consult the product label or your healthcare provider for specific dosing instructions.

Alternative Indigestion Medicines: Comparing Options

While Pepto-Bismol is a popular choice, there are several other medications available for treating indigestion and heartburn:

Antacids

Antacids are quick-acting remedies that neutralize stomach acid. Common ingredients include:

• Calcium carbonate (e.g., Tums)
• Magnesium hydroxide (e.g., Milk of Magnesia)
• Aluminium hydroxide
• Sodium alginate

Some products, such as Maalox, Rennies, and Gaviscon, contain combinations of these ingredients. Antacids are ideal for occasional acid reflux and can be purchased over-the-counter at pharmacies and supermarkets.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs work by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. Most PPIs require a prescription, but some lower-strength options are available over-the-counter. Examples include:

• Omeprazole
• Esomeprazole
• Lansoprazole

H2 Blockers

Also known as histamine antagonists, H2 blockers reduce stomach acid production through a different mechanism than PPIs. Prescription options include:

• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Famotidine (Pepcid)
• Nizatidine (Axid)

Famotidine is also available over-the-counter at pharmacies.

Pepto-Bismol and Contraception: Important Considerations

Does Pepto-Bismol interfere with contraception? The good news is that Pepto-Bismol does not directly affect the effectiveness of any type of contraception, including the combined pill and emergency contraception. However, there’s an important caveat to consider:

If you experience severe diarrhea for more than 24 hours while taking oral contraceptives, your birth control may not provide adequate protection against pregnancy. In such cases, it’s crucial to refer to the instructions provided with your contraceptive pill for guidance on what steps to take.

Safety Considerations: Driving and Alcohol Consumption

Can you drive or ride a bike after taking Pepto-Bismol? Under normal circumstances, taking Pepto-Bismol should not affect your ability to drive or ride a bike. However, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects that could impact your safety:

• Confusion
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Hearing issues
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears)

If you experience any of these symptoms, refrain from driving or cycling until you feel fully recovered. Remember, it’s your responsibility to determine if it’s safe for you to operate a vehicle. When in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid driving.

Alcohol and Pepto-Bismol

Is it safe to consume alcohol while taking Pepto-Bismol? While alcohol doesn’t directly interfere with how Pepto-Bismol works, it can exacerbate your symptoms:

• Alcohol stimulates increased stomach acid production
• This can irritate your stomach lining
• Symptoms may worsen as a result

Additionally, if you’re taking Pepto-Bismol for diarrhea, alcohol consumption may lead to further dehydration. It’s advisable to avoid alcohol until your symptoms have resolved.

Dietary Considerations and Lifestyle Changes

While taking Pepto-Bismol, you can generally eat and drink normally. However, making some dietary adjustments can help manage your symptoms more effectively:

Foods to Avoid

Consider limiting or avoiding foods that may trigger or worsen indigestion:

• Rich, spicy, and fatty foods
• Acidic foods (e.g., tomatoes, citrus fruits)
• Caffeinated beverages (tea, coffee, cola, energy drinks)
• Alcohol

Lifestyle Modifications

Implementing certain lifestyle changes can help reduce stomach acid issues:

1. Maintain a healthy weight or lose weight if necessary
2. Avoid eating for at least 3 hours before bedtime
3. Elevate your head and shoulders while sleeping
4. Quit smoking
5. Manage stress through relaxation techniques

By combining medication like Pepto-Bismol with these lifestyle modifications, you can effectively manage and potentially reduce the frequency of stomach acid-related issues.

Long-term Management: When to Seek Medical Advice

While Pepto-Bismol can be effective for occasional digestive issues, persistent or recurring symptoms may require further medical attention. When should you consult a healthcare professional? Consider seeking medical advice if:

• Symptoms persist for more than two weeks despite using over-the-counter medications
• You experience severe or frequent heartburn
• You have difficulty swallowing
• You notice unexplained weight loss
• You have persistent nausea or vomiting
• You observe blood in your stool or vomit

A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include prescription medications or further diagnostic tests.

Pepto-Bismol for Special Populations: Considerations and Precautions

While Pepto-Bismol is generally safe for most adults, certain groups may need to exercise caution or avoid its use altogether. Who should be particularly careful when considering Pepto-Bismol?

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using Pepto-Bismol, as it contains bismuth subsalicylate, which is related to aspirin. This ingredient may pose risks during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Breastfeeding mothers should also seek medical advice, as the medication can pass into breast milk.

Children and Teenagers

Pepto-Bismol is not recommended for children under 12 years old without a doctor’s guidance. For teenagers, it’s important to be aware of the potential risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition associated with aspirin use in children and teens recovering from viral infections.

Individuals with Certain Medical Conditions

People with the following conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using Pepto-Bismol:

• Bleeding disorders
• Gout
• Diabetes
• Ulcers
• Kidney problems

Additionally, individuals taking certain medications, such as blood thinners or antibiotics, should check with their doctor or pharmacist to ensure Pepto-Bismol won’t interact with their current treatment regimen.

Understanding Pepto-Bismol’s Side Effects and Potential Interactions

While Pepto-Bismol is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and interactions. What are some common side effects of Pepto-Bismol?

• Temporary darkening of the tongue or stools
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Stomach cramps

In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Ringing in the ears
• Hearing loss

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Drug Interactions

Pepto-Bismol may interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Some medications that may interact with Pepto-Bismol include:

• Anticoagulants (blood thinners)
• Tetracycline antibiotics
• Diabetes medications
• Gout medications

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Common questions about Pepto-Bismol – NHS

How does Pepto-Bismol work?

It’s not fully understood how Pepto-Bismol works.

The medicine forms a protective coating over the lower part of your food pipe (oesophagus), and partly coats your stomach. This helps protect them from stomach acid.

It also has weak antacid properties that may help reduce too much stomach acid. This will ease feelings of pain and discomfort.

When will I feel better?

Pepto-Bismol should work within 30 to 60 minutes.

You can have another dose after 30 to 60 minutes, if you need to.

You can take up to 8 doses in 24 hours.

Are there other indigestion medicines?

There are a number of different medicines for indigestion and heartburn.

Antacids contain ingredients like calcium carbonate (Tums), magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia), aluminium hydroxide or sodium alginate. Some contain combinations of these ingredients (for example Maalox, Rennies and Gaviscon).

Antacids relieve indigestion and heartburn by counteracting (neutralising) the reducing the damage of acid in your stomach. They work quickly and make you feel better for a few hours. They’re ideal if you occasionally get stomach acid problems. You can get antacids from pharmacies and supermarkets.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes. Most PPIs are available on prescription only. They include omeprazole, esomeprazole and lansoprazole. You can buy the lowest-strength omeprazole and esomeprazole from pharmacies.

h3 blockers (histamine antagonists) reduce the amount of acid made in your stomach, but they do this in a different way to PPIs. For example, your doctor might prescribe cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid) or nizatidine (Axid). You can also buy famotidine from pharmacies.

Will it affect my contraception?

Pepto-Bismol does not stop any type of contraception from working, including the combined pill and emergency contraception.

However, if you’re on the pill and have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.

Find out what to do if you’re on the pill and have diarrhoea.

Can I drive or ride a bike?

Taking Pepto-Bismol will not usually affect your ability to drive a car or ride a bike.

However, taking too much Pepto-Bismol can make you feel confused, tired or dizzy. It can also affect your hearing or cause ringing or buzzing in your ears. If you have any of these symptoms, do not drive or ride a bike until you feel OK again.

It’s an offence to drive a car if your ability to drive safely is affected. It’s your responsibility to decide if it’s safe to drive. If you’re in any doubt, do not drive.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure whether it’s safe for you to drive while taking Pepto-Bismol. GOV.UK has more information on the law on drugs and driving.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Pepto-Bismol?

Alcohol does not affect the way Pepto-Bismol works. However, drinking alcohol makes your stomach produce more acid than normal. This can irritate your stomach lining and make your symptoms worse.

If you have diarrhoea, drinking alcohol may make you more dehydrated. It’s best to avoid alcohol until your symptoms are better.

Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?

You can eat and drink normally while taking Pepto-Bismol. However, it’s best to avoid foods that seem to make your indigestion worse, like rich, spicy and fatty foods.

Try to cut down on caffeinated drinks, such as tea, coffee, cola and energy drinks. Reduce or try to avoid alcohol.

Can lifestyle changes help ease stomach acid?

Making a few changes to your diet and lifestyle may help if you have problems caused by too much stomach acid.

It can help if you:

• keep to a healthy weight or lose weight if you need to – extra weight can put pressure on your stomach and make acid reflux worse
• do not eat foods that can make your symptoms worse, including rich, spicy and fatty foods, and acidic foods like tomatoes, citrus fruits, salad dressings and fizzy drinks
• cut down on caffeinated drinks, such as tea, coffee, cola and energy drinks
• cut down on alcohol
• try not to eat for at least 3 hours before you go to bed
• prop your head and shoulders up when you go to bed – this can stop stomach acid coming up while you sleep
• quit smoking – you can call the NHS Stop Smoking Helpline on 0300 123 1044

Page last reviewed: 3 August 2022

Next review due: 3 August 2025

When & How to Take Pepto Bismol?

Pepto Bismol was first created over 100 years ago and has been known ever since as the most trusted brand for upset stomachs. In the last century, Pepto Bismol has provided fast and effective relief from nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, and diarrhea for you, your parents, and maybe even your grandparents. You probably know the original Pepto Bismol pink liquid but, in its lifetime, Pepto Bismol has expanded its offering to provide even more products like chewables, caplets, liquicaps, and chews! We’ve even launched a single symptom line, Pepto Diarrhea, to treat diarrhea at its source. While all forms of Pepto Bismol provide effective relief from your upset stomach symptoms, no matter which Pepto Bismol you choose, it’s important to read the labels on each package for proper dosage instructions.

No matter which tummy trouble you’re experiencing, you should take 1 dose of Pepto Bismol every half hour to hour until you feel better, but do not take more than 8 doses in a 24-hour period. Dosing varies by Pepto Bismol formula and form, so we’ll break down what 1 dose means for each product.

Pepto Bismol Liquids

Before you take Pepto Bismol Liquids, shake the bottle. Then fill the dosing cup provided on the cap, fill it to the top, and drink up. One dose cup of Pepto Bismol liquids equals one dose. Just in case that dose cup goes missing, we’ll also break down how many mL of each Pepto formula equals 1 dose.

– Original Strength Liquid : 30 mL equals 1 dose.

– Ultra-Strength Liquid: 15 mL equals 1 dose.

– Pepto Diarrhea Liquid: 10 mL equals 1 dose.

Tip: Pepto Bismol liquids do not need to be refrigerated, but some say it tastes better when cold. Pepto Bismol is just as effective when stored at room temperature or in the fridge—so the choice is up to you!

Pepto Bismol Chews

Pepto Bismol Chews provide the same fast relief as the liquid in a delightful, great-tasting chew! Two chews equal one dose, so be sure you don’t take more than 16 chews in 24 hours. Pro tip: Keep  Pepto Bismol Chews in your purse or at your desk so you’re always covered.

Pepto Bismol LiquiCaps™

Some people don’t like their medicine to taste like anything. But when nausea, diarrhea, or another unpleasant stomach trouble hits, you want fast, trusted relief from Pepto Bismol. Two Pepto Bismol LiquiCaps™ equals one dose. Two Pepto Diarrhea LiquiCaps™ also equals one dose.

Pepto Bismol also comes in Caplets (2 caplets equals one dose) and Chewables (2 chewables equals 1 dose). For Pepto Bismol Ultra Caplets, 1 caplet equals 1 dose.

All these forms of Pepto Bismol are equally effective and use the same active ingredient, bismuth subsalicylate. Follow the directions and, if you have any questions, contact your healthcare provider.

Pepto Bismol Kids

Kids younger than 12 do not get the same Pepto Bismol as adults. Pepto Kids was specially formulated just for your little ones’ acid-related tummy troubles. The dosage for Pepto Kids depends on your child’s weight. The number of doses you can give in a 24-hour period depends on your child’s age. Read the label carefully to ensure you’re giving your child the right dose and be sure to keep Pepto Kids out of children’s’ reach to make sure you can administer properly. If you have any questions, talk to your child’s pediatrician.

How many Pepto chews can I give my dog?

Dose of Pepto-Bismol for Dogs: According to Dr. Klein, the recommended dosage is 1 teaspoon for every 10 pounds. It can be offered to your dog every 6-8 hours, but if your dog still has diarrhea after a few doses, stop taking the medication and call your veterinarian.

Chewable Dosage: When giving chewable tablets to your dog, the recommended dosage is 8.5mg per lb (Regular Strength Pepto-Bismol Chewable).

Pepto-Bismol may be good for indigestion and diarrhea, but can potentially cause negative side effects in dogs. Bismuth subsalicylate, the active ingredient in pepto-bismol, can make your pet’s stool black, which is problematic because it mimics melena (i.e. “digested” blood in the stool).

Pepto-Bismol should act within 30-60 minutes. If necessary, you may take another dose 30 to 60 minutes later. You can take up to 8 doses in 24 hours.

Here are a few things you can try to help your dog feel better if they have an upset stomach:

is a safe alternative to Kaopectate because it contains the same active ingredients. Most veterinarians recommend 5 ml of Pepto Bismol per pound of body weight.

The bismuth portion of the medicine actually kills bacteria. However, don’t go to the pharmacy and buy a bottle of Pepto-Bismol expecting this alone will cure the infection. HOUR.

Carefully follow the dosage instructions and recommendations on the product packaging. You do not need to take the medicine with meals. Do not take Pepto Bismol for more than two days. 3 Be sure to drink plenty of water while taking Pepto Bismol to replenish fluid loss during episodes of diarrhea.

Pepto Diarrhea Caplets: Take one capsule every 30 minutes or two capsules every 60 minutes as needed. Swallow the capsules with water. Don’t chew them.

If vomiting stops during this time, your veterinarian will likely ask you to give your pet soft food, such as steamed chicken and white rice, in small amounts for several days until he gradually returns to his normal diet.

Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol®) is commonly stocked in first aid kits for digestive disorders and can be administered to your dog. If your dog has never taken it before, consult your veterinary team before dosing.

Antidiarrheals, dewormers, and/or probiotics (bacteria that support gut health) may be prescribed in some cases. Metronidazole (brand name Flagyl®) and tylosin (brand name Tylan®) are commonly prescribed antidiarrheals that reduce intestinal inflammation that often leads to diarrhea.

“If the diarrhea is not severe, the results are noticeable within 24 hours,” he says. Please consult your veterinarian for similar products.

The diet known as BRAT can also quickly relieve diarrhea. BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. This diet is effective due to the tasteless nature of these foods and the fact that they are starchy and low in fiber. These foods bind the digestive tract and make the stool bulkier.

How does Pepto Bismol work?

Pepto-Bismol

contains the active ingredient bismuth subsalicylate, a substance that coats the gastrointestinal tract, reduces inflammation and kills bacteria like E. coli, according to NetDoctor. Scientists are not sure how this process works. Pepto-Bismol also reduces irritation and pain by reducing secretions in the digestive tract.

Pepto-Bismol Chewable Tablets and Liquid Suspension help relieve symptoms of nausea, heartburn, indigestion and diarrhea. Dugs.com explains that this medication also limits the stomach’s response when people overeat or drink too much. Pepto-Bismol makes the stool firmer and reduces bowel movements in the colon. Doctors may advise patients to use this drug to treat other conditions.

WebMD states that this product should not be used to treat diarrhea if the indigestion is accompanied by fever or bloody stools. Patients should not take Pepto-Bismol for chronic ulcers unless directed by a physician, but it may be used along with other medicines to treat ulcers caused by the bacterial infection Helicobacter pylori. Salicylates can cause ulcers to bleed.

NetDoctor explains that Pepto-Bismol tablets and suspension can be taken with or without food and should not be taken more than eight doses in a 24 hour period.