Learn how to use Pepto bismol

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1. What is the use of Pepto bismol?

Pepto Bismol is a drug belonging to the group of antacids with anti-reflux, anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory effects in the digestive system with the main active ingredient being Bismuth subsalicylate.
The above effects of the drug pepto bismol combine to help treat digestive symptoms such as:
heartburn Nausea indigestion Abdominal pain Diarrhea bloating Ợ gas Under the guidance of a doctor, the patient still Pepto Bismol can be used in combination with other medicines to help treat infections caused by H. pylori bacteria and the symptoms that arise from them. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend pepto bismol to treat symptoms of a chronic digestive disorder.
Some people also find pepto-bismol to be antibacterial when traveling to unfamiliar areas, where local bacteria can infect their digestive system and cause diarrhea. traveling.
If your gastrointestinal symptoms worsen or persist for more than 2 days then you should contact your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

2. How to use Pepto bismol

For adults and children over 12 years old, depending on whether the drug is a chewable tablet, oral tablet or liquid form as well as the medical condition, there are different ways to use the drug:
With a chewable tablet, you chew or suck it in Oral until dissolved, with oral tablet form, you only need to take the medicine with a little water, both forms have the same recommended dose as follows:
Every 30 minutes take 2 pepto bismol tablets or 4 tablets per hour for diarrhea. Take 2 tablets every 30 minutes to treat abdominal pain, nausea, heartburn, indigestion. And do not take more than 16 tablets in 24 hours. With Pepto Bismol liquid, you should take a dose of 30ml each time and repeat this dose every 30 minutes if needed, but not more than 240ml in 24 hours.
For children under 12 years old, you should consult your doctor about the dose and use of the drug.

3. Side effects of Pepto bismol

The most common side effects are temporary darkening of the tongue and stools. The discoloration will disappear when you stop using the product. Pepto Bismol contains a substance called bismuth. When this combines with sulfur (a mineral in your body), it forms another substance called bismuth sulfide, which is black. When bismuth sulfide forms in your digestive tract, it mixes with food as you digest it. This causes your stools to turn black. When bismuth sulfide forms in your saliva, it turns your tongue black.
More rarely are the following side effects and if you experience these, you should stop taking the product immediately and go to medical facilities for examination and treatment:
Allergic reactions to these symptoms such as: itching, rash, swelling of the mouth, face, difficulty breathing, angina, ... Abnormal urination, dry mouth, thirst, dizziness, nervousness. Tinnitus Hearing loss Stomach or intestinal bleeding: bloody or dark stools, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. Causes Reye's syndrome in children or adolescents recovering from chickenpox or the flu.

4. Does Pepto Bismol have any effect on pregnant and lactating women?

There is little evidence that Pepto Bismol causes harmful side effects during pregnancy, although there are few studies that say it is safe. Similarly, it is not known whether bismuth subsalicylate passes into breast milk. Therefore, pregnant or nursing women should always consult their doctor before using Pepto Bismol or any medicine containing bismuth subsalicylate.

5. Pepto bismol and drug interactions

There are several possible interactions when taking Pepto Bismol:
Most notably, Pepto Bismol can interact with anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin. The drug may act similarly to aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and so may increase their effects. If you are taking aspirin or NSAIDs (such as aspirin, naproxen, ibuprofen, meloxicam, indomethacin and diclofenac,...) you should tell your doctor right away. It can also interact with other drugs people take to treat chronic conditions, such as gout (such as probenecid,...) or diabetes (such as insulin, metformin, sulfonylureas, etc.). ..) Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as benazepril, captopril, enalapril, etc. Antiepileptic drugs, such as valproic acid and divalproex

6. How to avoid the harmful effects caused by Pepto bismol?

You should tell your doctor before taking Pepto Bismol if you have ulcers or bleeding disorders or a history of bleeding disorders, a history of allergy to aspirin or other salicylates, NSAIDs.
Anyone with a medical condition such as gout or diabetes should also contact their doctor before using the drug.
People can also have reactions to other ingredients in the medicine, so you should check all ingredients before using the product.
Pepto Bismol is generally safe when used correctly by a person, but an overdose can still occur. Signs of an overdose include:
Extreme dizziness Tinnitus Partial deafness Change in breathing Confusion Confusion Call 911 immediately or go to the nearest medical facility and remember to bring or write it down. all medications you are taking including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, supplements and herbs).

7. What should I do if I miss a dose of Pepto bismol?

When you forget to take a dose of pepto bismol, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is too close to your next dose, skip that dose and take your next dose at the usual time and do not double the prescribed dose of pepto bismol.

8. How to store Pepto-Bismol?

You should store pepto bismol at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius), avoid storing it in humid places and protect from light. Do not keep pepto bismol in the bathroom or in the freezer. Keep pepto bismol out of reach of children and pets. Keep in mind that each drug may have different storage conditions. Therefore, carefully read the storage instructions on the medicine packaging.
Pepto Bismol is a well-known over-the-counter (OTC) medicine used to treat digestive problems. To ensure the effectiveness of treatment and avoid side effects, patients need to take medicine according to prescription or consult a doctor, pharmacist for advice.
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