How to Take Pepto-Bismol: Side Effects, Dosage
How to take Pepto-Bismol: dosage, common side effects, warnings, and dosing tips.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Pepto-Bismol
How to Take Pepto-Bismol
Per OTC labeling, you can take Pepto-Bismol as a liquid, chewable tablets, or caplets. Use only one form at a time and follow these dosing instructions from the product label.
- Adults and teens 12 and older (liquid): Per OTC labeling, take 30 mL every 30–60 minutes as needed. Do not exceed 240 mL in 24 hours.
- Chewable tablets (12 and older): Per OTC labeling, chew 2 tablets every 30–60 minutes. Do not exceed 8 doses (16 tablets) in 24 hours.
- Caplets (12 and older): Per OTC labeling, take 2 caplets every 30–60 minutes. Maximum 8 doses (16 caplets) in 24 hours.
- Children under 12: Per OTC labeling, do not use Pepto-Bismol. Choose a children's diarrhea medicine instead.
- How to take it: Shake the liquid well before measuring; use an accurate dosing cup. Chew chewables fully before swallowing. Take with or without food.
- Hydration: Sip clear fluids regularly while using it to stay well-hydrated.
- When to stop: Per OTC labeling, if symptoms last more than 2 days, stop the medication and seek medical guidance.
Warnings Before Taking Pepto-Bismol
- Per OTC labeling, avoid if allergic to salicylates (like aspirin).
- Per OTC labeling, do not use in children or teens recovering from viral illness due to Reye's syndrome risk.
- Per OTC labeling, avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding unless your clinician approves.
- Per OTC labeling, skip if on blood thinners or if you have bleeding disorders.
- Per OTC labeling, avoid with active ulcers or severe kidney issues.
Pepto-Bismol Side Effects
Common
Mild
Darkened Stool
Per OTC labeling, Pepto-Bismol may cause temporary darkening of stool. This occurs because bismuth subsalicylate forms bismuth sulfide in the gut, which temporarily darkens stool color.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
12–48 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Black Tongue
Per OTC labeling, a temporary dark coating on the tongue may occur due to the same bismuth reaction. It fades on its own after the medicine is stopped.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
12–48 hours
Common
Mild
Nausea
Per OTC labeling, some people may feel mildly queasy as the stomach adjusts to the medication.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
30 minutes–2 hours
Uncommon
Moderate
Constipation
Per OTC labeling, Pepto-Bismol can slow movement in the intestines, which may lead to firmer or less frequent stools.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–2 days
Rare
Mild
Mild Rash
Per OTC labeling, occasionally sensitive individuals may notice a light skin rash. Stop use and consult a healthcare provider if rash occurs.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
12–24 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Increased Gas
Per OTC labeling, as the digestive tract responds to the medication, you may notice temporary bloating or gas.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Pepto-Bismol
If You Forgot to Take Pepto-Bismol
If you miss a dose of Pepto-Bismol, take it when you remember, as long as your stomach symptoms are still present. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and return to your usual timing.
Do not double up on doses — use the medication only as needed for symptoms, spacing doses according to product directions.
Per OTC labeling, use only as needed for symptoms.
What If You Took Too Much Pepto-Bismol
If You Accidentally Took Too Much Pepto-Bismol
If more than the labeled amount was taken, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate, a salicylate compound; taking too much may cause electrolyte imbalance or salicylate toxicity.
- Do not take any more Pepto-Bismol or other products containing bismuth or salicylates until you have spoken with Poison Control or a clinician.
- If symptoms such as ringing in the ears, unusual confusion, or severe stomach pain occur, seek emergency medical care.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Pepto-Bismol Cost
How Much Does Pepto-Bismol Cost With Insurance?
Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter medication, so most insurance plans do not cover it. Some insurance plans with HSA or FSA cards may allow reimbursement, but this varies by provider and plan. Contact your insurance provider for your specific coverage information.
Pricing information is subject to change. Contact your pharmacy or insurance plan for current pricing.
How Much Does Pepto-Bismol Cost without Insurance
Cost of Pepto-Bismol Without Insurance
Without insurance, Pepto-Bismol is sold over the counter. Pricing varies by retailer, location, formulation, and package size. Check with your local pharmacy or retailer for current pricing on standard bottles, chewable tablets, and larger family-size formulations.
Pricing information is subject to change. Contact your pharmacy for current pricing.
Resources:
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/bismuth-subsalicylate-pepto-bismol/
https://www.fda.gov/media/71824/download
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607040.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/bismuth-subsalicylate-oral-route/description/drg-20068521
https://www.drugs.com/mtm/pepto-bismol.html
