Pepto-Bismol Liquid 240ml

What is Pepto-Bismol Liquid 240ml?

Pepto-Bismol is a pink liquid medicine containing bismuth subsalicylate. It is licensed for the relief of heartburn, indigestion, nausea and upset stomach caused by overindulging in food and drink, and it also helps to control diarrhoea. It is for adults and young people aged 16 and over, and is meant for short-term use.

How does it help?

Bismuth subsalicylate works on the lining of the stomach and gut. The salicylate part has a mild anti-inflammatory action, and the bismuth helps to settle the gut and reduce loose, watery stools. The dose is 30ml in the cup provided, repeated every half hour to an hour if needed, with no more than 8 doses in 24 hours. Shake the bottle first. It can be taken before or after meals, on a full or empty stomach.

Key benefits

• One medicine for several common stomach complaints: heartburn, indigestion, nausea, upset stomach and diarrhoea
• Measured 30ml doses using the cup in the pack
• Can be taken on a full or empty stomach
• Can be repeated every half hour to an hour if needed, up to 8 doses in 24 hours

Who should take care?

Always read the patient information leaflet before use. Not for anyone under 16, because medicines containing salicylates have been linked with Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness in children and teenagers. Do not take it if you are allergic to aspirin or other salicylates, already take aspirin or another salicylate, have a stomach (peptic) ulcer or a bleeding or clotting disorder, or already have blood in your stools or black stools. Tell our pharmacist if you have gout or take a blood thinner, a medicine for gout or diabetes, methotrexate, or a tetracycline antibiotic such as doxycycline (take the two a couple of hours apart). While you take it, your tongue or stools may turn black; this is harmless and passes. Stop and speak to a doctor or pharmacist if symptoms are severe, get worse or last more than 2 days, or if you notice ringing in your ears. With diarrhoea, drink plenty of fluids, especially in frail or older people. Avoid it in pregnancy and while breastfeeding unless a doctor advises it.