Is Pepto-Bismol good for diarrhea?

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) can treat diarrhea and relieve other symptoms, like heartburn, indigestion, and nausea.


How quickly does Pepto-Bismol stop diarrhea?

Pepto-Bismol should work within 30 to 60 minutes. You can have another dose after 30 to 60 minutes, if you need to. You can take up to 8 doses in 24 hours.

What medicine is best for diarrhea?

What Are the Best Over-the-Counter Anti-Diarrhea Medicines?
  • Imodium A-D (loperamide) can help you have fewer bowel movements and might shorten your bout of diarrhea. ...
  • Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate both contain bismuth subsalicylate. ...
  • Probiotics might be helpful in treating diarrhea.


When should you not take Pepto-Bismol?

Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pepto-Bismol is not suitable for some people. To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have: ever had an allergic reaction to bismuth subsalicylate or any of the other ingredients in Pepto-Bismol or Pepti Calm.

Which is better for diarrhea Pepto-Bismol or Imodium?

The rest of their drug action differs, however. Imodium A-D slows the movement of fluids through your intestine and reduces the frequency and volume of your stools. Pepto-Bismol, on the other hand, reduces inflammation of your intestines and kills bacteria that cause diarrhea.


Pepto-Bismol for Travelers’ Diarrhea



What is the strongest anti diarrhea?

1. Loperamide. Loperamide is one of the best-known anti-diarrheal medicines. It slows down the digestive process in your bowels, which allows food to stay in your system for a longer period of time.

What causes diarrhea like water?

Watery diarrhea is commonly caused by a viral infection or food poisoning from eating undercooked meat or rotten foods. It can be serious if it causes dehydration. Keep an eye out for blood in the stool, and be sure to drink water and fluids with electrolytes. Ezekiel Richardson, MD.

Why is Pepto-Bismol not recommended?

Don't take Pepto-Bismol if you: are allergic to salicylates (including aspirin or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib) have an active, bleeding ulcer. are passing bloody stools or black stools that aren't caused by Pepto-Bismol.


Which is better Pepto or Imodium?

But when comparing Imodium A-D and Pepto-Bismol, does one work better than the other? One study published in 1990 suggests that loperamide (Imodium A-D) works better than bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) for treating acute diarrhea. Loperamide was able to provide faster relief compared to bismuth subsalicylate.

Should I take Pepto for stomach bug?

Some adults may find it helpful to take loperamide (Imodium A-D) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, others) to manage their symptoms. However, avoid these if you have bloody diarrhea or fever, which could be signs of another condition.

What helps diarrhea immediately?

BRAT diet

A diet known as BRAT may also quickly relieve diarrhea. BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. This diet is effective due to the bland nature of these foods, and the fact that they're starchy, low-fiber foods. These foods have a binding effect in the digestive tract to make stools bulkier.


How long is too long for diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a common problem. It may last 1 or 2 days and goes away on its own. If diarrhea lasts more than 2 days it may mean you have a more serious problem.

What is the easiest way to cure diarrhea?

Drink plenty of liquids, including water, broths and juices. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Add semisolid and low-fiber foods gradually as your bowel movements return to normal. Try soda crackers, toast, eggs, rice or chicken.

What if I still have diarrhea after taking Pepto-Bismol?

So, if you experience any side effects at all, you should stop using Pepto-Bismol. If you experience diarrhea after starting the medication, it's best to stay well hydrated. The darkening of the tongue or stool is harmless and will resolve on its own within a few days of stopping Pepto-Bismol.


Can I drink water after taking Pepto-Bismol?

It is generally considered safe to drink water after taking Pepto-Bismol. Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter medication that is used to treat upset stomach, heartburn, and indigestion. The active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is bismuth subsalicylate, which helps to reduce stomach acid and coat the stomach and intestine.

What medications 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.


Which form of Pepto-Bismol is most effective?

Pepto Bismol also comes in Caplets (2 caplets equals one dose) and Chewables (2 chewables equals 1 dose). For Pepto Bismol Ultra Caplets, 1 caplet equals 1 dose. All these forms of Pepto Bismol are equally effective and use the same active ingredient, bismuth subsalicylate.


What exactly does Pepto-Bismol do?

This medicine is used for heartburn and acid reflux, indigestion, diarrhoea and feeling sick (nausea). It works by protecting your stomach and the lower part of your food pipe from stomach acid. It is also a mild antacid, which helps reduce too much stomach acid and eases any discomfort.

What does Pepto do to your poop?

Why Pepto Bismol Can Turn Your Poop or Tongue Black. The active ingredient in Pepto Bismol contains bismuth, and when it combines with the sulfur that is naturally present in your mouth and digestive tract, this can sometimes result in a black tongue or black poop.

Can I lay down after taking Pepto-Bismol?

Take tablet or capsule forms of this medicine with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Also, do not lie down for about 15 to 30 minutes after swallowing the medicine. This helps to prevent irritation that may lead to trouble in swallowing.


Does Pepto have side effects?

You're unlikely to get any side effects from Pepto-Bismol if you follow the instructions for taking it. One common side effect is your poo or your tongue turning black. This is harmless.

What happens if your diarrhea is liquid?

If you have watery stools more than three times a day and you're not drinking enough fluids, you could become dehydrated. That can be a serious problem if it's not treated.

Will drinking water make diarrhea worse?

If you have IBD but a normal or near normal bowel length, increasing the amount of water you drink should not worsen your diarrhea.


What causes sudden explosive diarrhea?

Contaminated food and fluids are common sources of bacterial infections. Rotavirus, norovirus, and other kinds of viral gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as “stomach flu,” are among the viruses that can cause explosive diarrhea. Anyone can get these viruses. But they're especially common among school-age children.

Should I eat if I have diarrhea?

Water is best. Drink at least 1 cup (240 milliliters) of liquid every time you have a loose bowel movement. Eat small meals throughout the day, instead of 3 big meals. Eat some salty foods, such as pretzels, soup, and sports drinks.