Pepto bismol vs tums: My father, a family physician, tells me that there are different types of acid reflux and that Pepto Bismol can make it worse. If true, how do you know when to use it for heartburn?
What over-the-counter medicine you should take based on the kind of stomach ache you have
- You can help a stomach ache by taking medications like Pepto Bismol, Gas-X, Gaviscon, Tums, and Rolaids.
- Pepto Bismol helps symptoms like nausea, Gaviscon can help heartburn, and Gas X is best for stomach aches caused by excess gas.
- Though these medications can help occasional stomach aches, you should see a doctor if the pain is persistent.
- This article was medically reviewed by Rudolph Bedford, MD, a gastroenterologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California.
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Stomach aches and nausea are common ailments that everyone experiences from time to time. There are numerous possible causes for stomach ache, including gas, indigestion, stress, food allergies, food poisoning, and more.
A variety of effective over the counter medications is available for people experiencing stomach problems and looking for quick relief.
But if the pain is persistent, you should consider seeing a doctor as the condition could be indicative of a more serious underlying condition.
Here are some of the most popular OTC medications for stomach aches and how they work.
Pepto Bismol
The active ingredient: Bismuth subsalicylate
Best for: Nausea, diarrhea, heartburn, and indigestion
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When to take it: At the onset of symptoms
How it works: Pepto bismol reduces inflammation in the gut, says Harish Gagneja, MD, board-certified gastroenterologist with Austin Gastroenterology. Additionally, it slows down how quickly fluids and electrolytes flow into the bowel, which can help reduce diarrhea and any stomach ache associated with it.
On top of all this, Gagneja says bismuth subsalicylate has some antibacterial properties, which may help to further soothe the stomach and relieve diarrhea if a bacterial infection is contributing to the problem.
Gas-X
The active ingredient: Simethicone
Best for: Stomach pain caused by excess gas
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When to take it: At the onset of symptoms or after meals
How it works: Gagneja says Gas-X dissolves excess gas bubbles that are causing gas pains and bloating.
“It acts in the stomach and intestines to change the surface tension of gas bubbles, enabling their breakdown and the formation of larger bubbles which break easily. In this way it is believed that gas can be eliminated more easily by belching or passing [gas],” says Gagneja. Once that gas is released, your uncomfortable symptoms will be relieved.
Gaviscon
The active ingredients: Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate
Best for: Heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach
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When to take it: After eating
How it works: Magnesium carbonate is an antacid, meaning that it neutralizes acid in the stomach.
Additionally, Gagneja says the aluminum hydroxide coats the stomach and the esophagus. This coating creates a barrier on top of any stomach contents, which can help keep acid down and prevent acid reflux.
Tums
The active ingredient: Calcium carbonate
Best for: Heartburn, indigestion, and nausea
When to take it: At the onset of symptoms
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How it works: Stomach acid can contribute to feelings of a sore stomach and burning sensations associated with heartburn and indigestion. Calcium carbonate is alkaline, or basic, which helps it neutralize stomach acid, says Gagneja. Tums are pretty fast-acting since calcium carbonate starts to neutralize the acid on contact.
Rolaids
The active ingredients: Calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide
Best for: Heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach
When to take it: At the onset of symptoms
How it works: Just like Tums, Rolaids contain calcium carbonate which neutralizes stomach acid, but it also has added magnesium hydroxide which is an antacid.
Together, both of these ingredients combat stomach acid to relieve stomach symptoms caused by acid reflux. If you don’t have any Tums or Rolaids handy, check out Insider’s guide on natural remedies for acid reflux.
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When to see a doctor for a stomach ache
If your symptoms are persistent and you’re having ongoing abdominal pain, it’s best to see your doctor rather than continuing to take these meds to rule out serious conditions.
Also, if your stomach ache is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever, Gagneja says you should seek medical attention as soon as possible instead of trying to mask the symptoms with OTC medications. These symptoms could be a sign of appendicitis, which must be treated by a doctor.
Keep in mind that OTC medications are just band-aids for relieving symptoms. They are not designed to address any serious underlying condition, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, ulcers, or cancer, Gagneja says.
This is why it’s not recommended to take these medications long-term if symptoms are persisting.
“If people keep on taking these symptom relief over the counter meds, then those diseases can be missed,” says Gagneja.
- The best natural remedies for a stomach ache, according to a gastroenterologist
- How to treat IBS through medication, diet changes, and mental health care
- How to tell if you may have irritable bowel syndrome and how it’s diagnosed
What Helps a Stomach Ache? 5 Over-the-Counter Remedies
- You can help a stomach ache by taking medications like Pepto Bismol, Gas-X, Gaviscon, Tums, and Rolaids.
- Pepto Bismol helps symptoms like nausea, Gaviscon can help heartburn, and Gas X is best for stomach aches caused by excess gas.
- Though these medications can help occasional stomach aches, you should see a doctor if the pain is persistent.
- This article was medically reviewed by Rudolph Bedford, MD, a gastroenterologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California.
- Visit Insider’s Health Reference library for more advice.
Stomach aches and nausea are common ailments that everyone experiences from time to time. There are numerous possible causes for stomach ache, including gas, indigestion, stress, food allergies, food poisoning, and more.
A variety of effective over the counter medications is available for people experiencing stomach problems and looking for quick relief. But if the pain is persistent, you should consider seeing a doctor as the condition could be indicative of a more serious underlying condition.
Here are some of the most popular OTC medications for stomach aches and how they work.
Pepto Bismol
The active ingredient: Bismuth subsalicylate
Best for: Nausea, diarrhea, heartburn, and indigestion
When to take it: At the onset of symptoms
How it works: Pepto bismol reduces inflammation in the gut, says Harish Gagneja, MD, board-certified gastroenterologist with Austin Gastroenterology.
Additionally, it slows down how quickly fluids and electrolytes flow into the bowel, which can help reduce diarrhea and any stomach ache associated with it.
On top of all this, Gagneja says bismuth subsalicylate has some antibacterial properties, which may help to further soothe the stomach and relieve diarrhea if a bacterial infection is contributing to the problem.
Gas-X
The active ingredient: Simethicone
Best for: Stomach pain caused by excess gas
When to take it: At the onset of symptoms or after meals
How it works: Gagneja says Gas-X dissolves excess gas bubbles that are causing gas pains and bloating.
“It acts in the stomach and intestines to change the surface tension of gas bubbles, enabling their breakdown and the formation of larger bubbles which break easily. In this way it is believed that gas can be eliminated more easily by belching or passing [gas],” says Gagneja.
Once that gas is released, your uncomfortable symptoms will be relieved.
Gaviscon
The active ingredients: Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate
Best for: Heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach
When to take it: After eating
How it works: Magnesium carbonate is an antacid, meaning that it neutralizes acid in the stomach. Additionally, Gagneja says the aluminum hydroxide coats the stomach and the esophagus. This coating creates a barrier on top of any stomach contents, which can help keep acid down and prevent acid reflux.
Tums
The active ingredient: Calcium carbonate
Best for: Heartburn, indigestion, and nausea
When to take it: At the onset of symptoms
How it works: Stomach acid can contribute to feelings of a sore stomach and burning sensations associated with heartburn and indigestion.
Calcium carbonate is alkaline, or basic, which helps it neutralize stomach acid, says Gagneja. Tums are pretty fast-acting since calcium carbonate starts to neutralize the acid on contact.
Rolaids
The active ingredients: Calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide
Best for: Heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach
When to take it: At the onset of symptoms
How it works: Just like Tums, Rolaids contain calcium carbonate which neutralizes stomach acid, but it also has added magnesium hydroxide which is an antacid. Together, both of these ingredients combat stomach acid to relieve stomach symptoms caused by acid reflux. If you don’t have any Tums or Rolaids handy, check out Insider’s guide on natural remedies for acid reflux.
When to see a doctor for a stomach ache
If your symptoms are persistent and you’re having ongoing abdominal pain, it’s best to see your doctor rather than continuing to take these meds to rule out serious conditions.
Also, if your stomach ache is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever, Gagneja says you should seek medical attention as soon as possible instead of trying to mask the symptoms with OTC medications. These symptoms could be a sign of appendicitis, which must be treated by a doctor.
Keep in mind that OTC medications are just band-aids for relieving symptoms. They are not designed to address any serious underlying condition, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, ulcers, or cancer, Gagneja says. This is why it’s not recommended to take these medications long-term if symptoms are persisting.
“If people keep on taking these symptom relief over the counter meds, then those diseases can be missed,” says Gagneja.
- The best natural remedies for a stomach ache, according to a gastroenterologist
- How to treat IBS through medication, diet changes, and mental health care
- How to tell if you may have irritable bowel syndrome and how it’s diagnosed
Ashley Laderer
Ashley Laderer is a freelance writer from New York who specializes in health and wellness.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/pepto-bismol-and-kids-2634641-FINAL1-77efdb7f4e1240f5afc851cb48f6cc55.jpg)
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Pepto-Bismol vs Toomes: Differences, Similarities & What’s Best for You – Drug Vs. Friend
Home >> Drug Vs. Friend >> Pepto-Bismol vs Toomes: Differences, Similarities & Which is Best for You
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Drug Overview and Key Differences | Conditions of treatment | Efficiency | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug Interactions | Warnings | FAQ
Whether you’ve experienced mild indigestion or occasional heartburn, you’ve probably come across Pepto-Bismol and Tums at some point. These drugs are the two most common over-the-counter heartburn medications.
Both Pepto-Bismol and Tooms are antacid agents that help neutralize stomach acid. Too much stomach acid after eating spicy foods or large meals can sometimes cause burning or discomfort in the chest and upper abdomen. Antacids can help relieve these symptoms.
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What are the main differences between Pepto-Bismol and Tams?
Pepto-Bismol is the brand name for bismuth subsalicylate. Bismuth has an antimicrobial effect against certain diarrhea causing bacteria, while subsalicylate has an antisecretory effect against fluid and electrolyte loss. Bismuth subsalicylate also has an anti-inflammatory effect on the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines. For these reasons, Pepto-Bismol can be used as an antacid or antidiarrheal agent.
Pepto-bismol, in particular, is found as an oral liquid. However, it also comes in the form of regular tablets and chewable tablets. It is important to note that while most forms of Pepto-Bismol contain bismuth subsalicylate, Child Pepto-Bismol often contains calcium carbonate.
Tums is a brand name for calcium carbonate.
It is considered a potent antacid that directly neutralizes stomach acid. Calcium carbonate reacts with stomach acid to form calcium chloride, carbon dioxide and water. Due to the excess production of carbon dioxide in the stomach, belching and gas (flatulence) are common side effects of Tums.
Unlike Pepto-Bismol, Tums is primarily found as chewable tablets in regular and extra strength forms. Tums are typically used by people over 12, but children’s versions of Tums are also available. Some versions of Children’s Tums contain simethicone to help get rid of gas.
RELATED: Pepto Bismol Parts | Children’s Pepto-Bismol details | Details Tums
| Main differences between Pepto-Bismol and Tums | ||
|---|---|---|
| pepto-bismol | Tums | |
| Drug class | Antacid | |
| Brand/generic status | Branded and generic versions available | Branded and generic versions available |
| What is the common name? | Bismuth subsalicylate | Calcium carbonate |
| What form(s) does the drug come in? | Oral liquid suspension Oral tablet Oral chewable tablet | Oral chewable tablet |
| What is the standard dosage? | 2 tablespoons liquid or 2 tablets containing 262 mg (total 524 mg per dose) every 30-60 minutes as needed. Maximum 8 doses per day. | 2 to 4 750 mg chewable tablets as needed when symptoms appear. Maximum 10 tablets per day. |
| How long does a typical treatment take? | For occasional short-term use. Self-medication should not last more than 14 days of continuous use. | For occasional short-term use. Self-medication should not last more than 14 days of continuous use. |
| Who usually takes this medicine? | Adults and children 12 years and over | Adults and children 12 years and over |
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Conditions that Pepto-Bismol and Toomes Treat
Pepto-Bismol is FDA approved for the treatment of heartburn, a digestive problem that can also be a symptom of acid reflux and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
Pepto-Bismol can treat acid indigestion, which includes symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, bloating, and nausea. In addition, Pepto-Bismol treats: traveler’s diarrhea and occasional diarrhea, as well as peptic ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori . When used for Helicobacter pylori , bismuth subsalicylate is taken with other antibiotics to treat the infection.
Tums is indicated for the treatment of heartburn and indigestion. It helps to neutralize and reduce stomach acid to relieve symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort. Calcium carbonate is sometimes combined with simethicone to relieve the symptoms of gas and flatulence associated with indigestion.
Because Pepto-Bismol can sometimes contain calcium carbonate – the same ingredient as Tums – it’s important to check the package label and ask your doctor to make sure you’re taking the right product. Pepto Bismol
9 0040
Are Pepto Bismol or Tams more effective?
There are currently no comprehensive reviews directly comparing Pepto-Bismol and Toomes.
Studies have shown that bismuth subsalicylate and calcium carbonate are commonly used to treat indigestion due to their acid-lowering effects.
Compared to h3 blockers such as Pepcid (famotidine) and Zantac (ranitidine), Tooms works faster and relieves symptoms for a shorter period of time. Compared to other antacids such as Alka-Seltzer (sodium bicarbonate) and Maalox (aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide), Tums has a slightly slower onset of action, but its effects may last longer.
Pepto-Bismol is more effective for other purposes such as treating diarrhea and Helicobacter pylori infections. Bismuth subsalicylate has been shown to help treat peptic ulcers while fighting bacteria, especially when combined with antibiotics such as metronidazole and clarithromycin.
Consult your physician for the best treatment for occasional heartburn and indigestion. In more severe cases of heartburn, such as acid reflux or GERD, other medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), may be needed.
Medicines labeled as PPIs include: Prevacid (lansoprazole) and Prilosec (omeprazole).
RELATED: Alka-Seltzer Parts
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Pepto-Bismol vs. Tums coverage and cost comparison
Medicare and insurance plans rarely cover over-the-counter (OTC) drugs like Pepto-Bismol and Tums. Where an over-the-counter prescription drug is available, insurance plans may decide to cover it.
Get a SingleCare Coupon Card
The average cost of Pepto-Bismol and Tams varies depending on which pharmacy you go to. However, these drugs are relatively inexpensive. However, you can save more with a SingleCare Pepto-Bismol Coupon or a SingleCare Tums Coupon if prescribed by a doctor.
| pepto-bismol | Tums | |
| Usually covered by insurance? | No | No |
| Usually covered by Medicare? | No | No |
| Standard dosage | 2 x 262 mg tablets every 30-60 minutes as needed | 2 to 4 500 or 750 mg tablets as needed |
| Typical Medicare 9 copay0032 | N / A | N / A |
| 126 |
Common side effects of Pepto-Bismol compared to Tams
Pepto-Bismol often may cause dark stool or tongue.
This is because bismuth subsalicylate can react with small amounts of sulfur to form bismuth sulfide, a black substance. Although darkened stools can be confused with bloody stools (a serious condition), this side effect is temporary and harmless. Some people also report mild constipation after taking Pepto-Bismol.
Side effects of Tums include belching and gas (flatulence). Resins can also cause constipation and dry mouth.
Rare but serious effects of Pepto-Bismol may include tinnitus or persistent ringing in the ear, which may indicate a hearing problem. Other serious side effects of Tums include symptoms of high calcium levels (hypercalcemia), such as weakness, bone pain, and fatigue.
| pepto-bismol | Tums | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Side effect | Frequency | Applicable? No 0040| Black or darkened tongue | yes | * | no | * | Belching and flatulence | No | * | yes | * | Constipation 9 0047 | yes | * | yes | * | Dry mouth | no | * | yes | * | |
* not reported
This may not be a complete list of side effects that may occur.
Please contact your doctor or health care provider for more information.
Source: NIH (Pepto-Bismol), US National Institutes of Health (Tums)
Pepto-Bismol and Tamsa Drug Interactions
Pepto-Bismol can interact with many drugs that aspirin interacts with. Bismuth subsalicylate may interact with warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding. When taken with anti-gout medications such as probenecid, bismuth subsalicylate may reduce gout resistance. Pepto-bismol may also reduce the absorption and effectiveness of tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics.
Resins may reduce the effect of tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics. Calcium cations can also bind to antifungal agents such as itraconazole and reduce their absorption and effectiveness. Certain antibiotics, antifungals, and iron supplements should be avoided at least two hours before or after taking calcium carbonate.
| Drug | Drug class | Pepto Bismol | Tums |
| Doxycycline Minocycline Ciprofloxacin Levofloxacin | Anti biotics | yes | yes |
| Itraconazole Ketoconazole | Antifungals | no | yes |
| Warfarin | Anticoagulants | Yes | No |
| Probenecid |
Talk to your doctor about other possible drug interactions.
Pepto-Bismol and Tamsa Warnings
Those who are sensitive to aspirin preparations should avoid taking Pepto-Bismol and other salicylate preparations. Otherwise, a potential side effect could be hypersensitivity reactions such as a rash.
Pepto-Bismol should be avoided in children under 12 years of age. Children recovering from chickenpox or the flu are at increased risk of Reye’s syndrome after taking bismuth subsalicylate. In very rare cases, Pepto-Bismol may cause neurotoxicity, especially in AIDS patients. Signs and symptoms of neurotoxicity may include tremors, confusion, or seizures.
Because Tums contains calcium carbonate, it should be avoided or controlled with other calcium-containing foods. In severe cases, too much calcium can damage the kidneys, weaken bones, and affect brain and heart function.
Check with your healthcare professional for other precautions while using pepto-bismol or tams.
Frequently asked questions about Pepto-Bismol and Tamsa
What is Pepto-Bismol?
Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter drug containing bismuth subsalicylate.
It is used to treat mild, infrequent heartburn, indigestion, and diarrhea. Bismuth subsalicylate is also approved for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infections when used along with other antibiotics. Pepto-Bismol is available as an oral suspension, an oral tablet, and an oral chewable tablet.
What is tams?
Tums is a brand name for calcium carbonate. It is used to treat heartburn and indigestion. Tooms is available as regular and extra strength chewable tablets.
Are Pepto-Bismol and Tams the same thing?
Pepto-Bismol and Tams are not the same thing. They contain different active ingredients and come in different formulations. However, some versions of Pepto-Bismol may contain calcium carbonate, the same active ingredient as Tums. Before buying, check the drug label to make sure it contains the ingredients you need.
Which is better – pepto-bismol or tams?
Pepto-Bismol and Toomes are effective drugs for treating occasional symptoms of heartburn or indigestion.
Both work relatively quickly and work for a short time. One may be preferred over the other depending on the sugar content and inactive ingredients, and whether it comes in a liquid or chewable tablet. Cost can also play a role in choosing the best option.
Can I use Pepto-Bismol or Tooms during pregnancy?
Pepto-Bismol is not generally recommended for pregnant women due to a possible increased risk of bleeding. Tooms can sometimes be taken for indigestion at the recommended doses. However, it is important for pregnant women to be aware of their calcium intake as they may be taking other prenatal vitamins or supplements. Check with your doctor if you experience heartburn or indigestion during pregnancy.
Can I use Pepto Bismol or Tams with alcohol?
Alcohol should be avoided while taking Pepto-Bismol or Toomes. Alcohol can irritate the lining of the stomach or intestines and alter the overall effectiveness of antacids and antidiarrheals.
Is Tums good for indigestion?
Tooms is an affordable and effective way to treat indigestion.
Chewable Tums start working within five minutes and can be taken as needed. Tummas should only be used for mild, occasional heartburn and indigestion. If you need to use Tums continuously for more than 14 days, check with your doctor.
Is Pepto Bismol an antacid?
Pepto-Bismol is a mild antacid to help relieve symptoms of heartburn and indigestion. It also acts as an antidiarrheal that is commonly used to treat traveler’s diarrhea. Pepto-Bismol coats the lining of the digestive tract, preventing fluid and electrolyte loss.
Can dogs take TAMS off gas?
Yes, it is safe to give Tooms to your dog, but it is not very effective. Carbonate is the active ingredient in Tums, it reduces the amount of acid in the stomach.
What can I give my dog for stinky gas? Once your veterinarian has ruled out a medical or dietary cause for your puppy’s excess gas, Dr. Ochoa says, he may recommend a medication such as simethicone or an antacid to reduce your dog’s farting.
Supplementing your dog’s diet with probiotic powders can also help reduce farts.
“It has a low glycemic index, so it’s slowly absorbed, which helps with indigestion and indigestion,” says Dr. Birman. Make sure you get 100% canned pumpkin and not pumpkin pie mix, as you don’t want to feed your dog spices and other ingredients, she says.
OTC drugs safe for the treatment of gastrointestinal and stomach problems in dogs. Pepto-bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is safe for most dogs, but AKC Chief Veterinarian Dr.
Calcium supplements are usually available in tablet or flavored soft chew form and are easy to find in many households. When dogs take these supplements in large amounts, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation often occurs, with the possibility of a short-term increase in blood calcium levels.
Most cases of chronic flatulence are caused by a diet that is poorly digested by the dog. These poorly digestible diets cause excessive fermentation in the colon and subsequent gas formation.
Soybeans, peas, beans, dairy products, a high-fat diet, and spicy foods are commonly associated with flatulence in dogs.
Dogs have a very sensitive sense of smell, and just as we found repulsive gases, so do dogs. A sensitive dog may even get up and walk away from the bad odor, which is strong evidence that dogs can pick up the sulfurous smell of flatulence.
Use a soft brush, pin brush or slick brush, depending on your dog’s coat, to gently comb the hair from chest to belly in short strokes. Be very careful with the lower abdomen where hair can be sparse. Trim tangled hair or long hair around the genitals with scissors or a small clipper.
Try giving your dog banana puree or banana baby food from a spoon or finger. Just let him lick a small amount at a time. This will help him stay hydrated and also give him sugar for energy. If your dog needs to eat and cannot go hungry, offer him a small amount of boiled rice several times a day.
Eggs are an excellent source of protein.
They also contain essential fatty acids and amino acids. Well-cooked eggs can even help with a dog’s upset stomach and can be a surprisingly good training treat.
Chewable Dosage: When giving chewable tablets to your dog, the recommended dosage is 8.5mg per lb (Regular Strength Pepto-Bismol Chewable).
The gurgle you hear from a dog’s stomach is caused by the movement of gas in the intestines. Like us, some bowel activity is normal, but overall it’s pretty quiet. … Sometimes, like us, dogs have episodes of loud gurgling.
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.
OTC antacids typically contain calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and aluminum hydroxide, but many antacids pose a low risk when ingested by dogs. The main concern is the development of vomiting, diarrhea and constipation.