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Bismuth Subsalicylate Oral Suspension (BISMUTH SUBSALICYLATE - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • diarrhea
  • indigestion
  • traveler's diarrhea
  • ulcers in stomach or intestines

Brand Name(s): Bismusal, Kaopectate Reformulated Aug 2006, Kola-Pectin, Pepto-bismol, Percy Medicine

Generic Name: Bismuth Subsalicylate

Instructions

Drink the medicine.

Measure the dose of liquid medicine carefully. Use the measuring device that comes with the medicine. If you do not have one, please ask your pharmacist for help.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Shake the bottle well before using the medicine.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

Your tongue may turn a dark color while taking this medicine. This is harmless and will go away when you stop the medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than eight times during 24 hours.

Cautions

IMPORTANT: Children and teenagers should not use this medicine if they have cold and flu symptoms or chickenpox.

This medicine may cause serious bleeding problems in patients taking blood thinner medications. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully to monitor your blood lab tests if you are on blood thinners.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

This medicine may contain aspartame (phenylalanine). Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have a medical condition that requires you to limit or avoid this ingredient.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • constipation

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • increased risk of bruising and bleeding
  • unusual bruising or discoloration on skin
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • ear problems (ringing in the ears, hearing loss)
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • severe stomach or bowel pain
  • bloody or dark, tarry stools

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.