FAQs
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!
How to store Pepto-Bismol after opening? ›
How do I store and/or throw out Pepto-Bismol?
- Store at room temperature.
- Protect from heat.
- Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
- Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
- Throw away unused or expired drugs.
Official answer
It's best to discard expired medicines as the manufacturers do not guarantee the quality or efficacy of medicines past their expiry date.
Can you drink water right after taking Pepto-Bismol? ›
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.
When not to take Pepto-Bismol? ›
Who may not be able to take Pepto-Bismol
- ever had an allergic reaction to bismuth subsalicylate or any of the other ingredients in Pepto-Bismol or Pepti Calm.
- ever had an allergic reaction to aspirin or any other medicine.
- diabetes.
- gout.
You can take Pepto-Bismol for up to 2 days. Do not take it for more than 2 days as this will increase your risk of getting side effects. If your symptoms are no better or are getting worse after 2 days, contact your doctor.
How long does it take for Pepto-Bismol to coat your stomach? ›
It takes 30 minutes to an hour for Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) to start working and help relieve diarrhea, upset stomach, and nausea. Sometimes referred to as "the pink stuff," Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that is safe and effective for short-term use.
Can Pepto-Bismol be left out of the fridge? ›
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!
Is Pepto-Bismol bad for your stomach? ›
Adverse effects are uncommon with recommended doses, but mild side effects can occur such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation. When the bismuth in Pepto Bismol mixes with sulfur in saliva and digestive fluids, a black substance (bismuth sulfide) is formed that can darken the tongue and feces temporarily.
What is better Tums or Pepto-Bismol? ›
The best upset stomach medicine for you depends on the symptoms you're experiencing and what's causing it. Antacids (such as Tums and Rolaids) are a good choice for heartburn and sour stomach. And medicines that contain bismuth subsalicylate (like Pepto-Bismol) can help treat diarrhea and nausea.
The Pepto Bismol website recommends taking:
- One 30 ml dose every 30 minutes as needed for stomach upset, nausea, heartburn, and indigestion.
- One 30 ml dose every 30 minutes or two doses every hour for diarrhea or traveler's diarrhea.
Rinse your mouth after taking antacids, and after eating acidic foods. Consume less acidic foods and drinks. To protect enamel, wait about 30 minutes to brush after eating antacids or acidic foods.
Why can't diabetics take Pepto-Bismol? ›
Using bismuth subsalicylate together with insulin or certain other diabetes medications may increase the risk of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nervousness, confusion, tremor, nausea, hunger, weakness, perspiration, palpitation, and rapid heartbeat.
What drugs should not be taken with Pepto-Bismol? ›
Cautions with other medicines
- an anticoagulant – medicines that help to prevent blood clots.
- tablets or other oral medicines for diabetes.
- medicine for gout.
- doxycycline or minocycline, or any other tetracycline antibiotics.
As it slowly makes its way out of your body you may see black poo. This side effect usually goes away when you stop taking the medicine but it may take several days. If your tongue or your poo is still black after you've stopped taking Pepto-Bismol for several days, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist.
Will Pepto-Bismol prolong a stomach virus? ›
However, in some cases, Pepto-Bismol may prolong a stomach virus. This is because diarrhea is the body's way of getting rid of the virus, and treating diarrhea may slow this process down. Most of the time, a stomach virus will resolve on its own with at-home care.
Why is Pepto-Bismol pink? ›
The active ingredient in Pepto Bismol® is bismuth subsalicylate. This compound plus a little red dye gives Pepto Bismol its pink color. (According to a Procter & Gamble historian, the color was originally chosen to appeal to children and reduce their fears.)
Why does Pepto-Bismol say not to take if you have an ulcer? ›
Do not use this medication to self-treat ulcers. Bismuth subsalicylate is a salicylate. Salicylates can cause serious bleeding problems when used alone in patients with ulcers. Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before.
How do you clean Pepto-Bismol? ›
Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly on the stain and blot (DO NOT RUB) the area with a clean, white cloth. Rinse cloth often in cool water and continue blotting until no further stain can be removed. Blot dry with a dry cloth (club soda may be used instead of hydrogen peroxide).
Does Pepto-Bismol help with gas? ›
Yes, Pepto-Bismol can also help treat nausea, heartburn, and other digestive symptoms, including: Gas. Indigestion. Fullness or feeling bloated.
