Generic medicine

Bismuth Subsalicylate: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Bismuth Subsalicylate is an antidiarrheal and gastroprotective agent used for the following indications: Established / OTC-approved uses Symptomatic relief of diarrhea and more.

Forms:Oral SuspensionSyrup

About Bismuth Subsalicylate

Indications of Bismuth Subsalicylate

Bismuth Subsalicylate is an antidiarrheal and gastroprotective agent used for the following indications:

Established / OTC-approved uses

  • Symptomatic relief of diarrhea, including travelers' diarrhea
  • Relief of upset stomach, indigestion, heartburn, and nausea associated with overeating or drinking

Guideline-supported combination-therapy use

  • As part of a multi-drug (quadruple) regimen with an antibiotic combination and a proton pump inhibitor or H2-blocker for eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with duodenal ulcer disease. Bismuth Subsalicylate alone does not eradicate H. pylori; it must be combined with antibiotics as directed by a physician.

Bismuth Subsalicylate is not a substitute for oral rehydration therapy in significant fluid loss, and is not intended for chronic or prolonged use without medical supervision.

Dosage & Administration of Bismuth Subsalicylate

The following describes typical dosing of Bismuth Subsalicylate by indication and age group.

For diarrhea and upset stomach (OTC use)

Age groupDoseFrequencyMaximum
Adults and children ≥ 12 years262 mg (regular strength) or 525 mg (extra strength)Every 30–60 minutes as needed8 doses (regular strength) or 4 doses (extra strength) in 24 hours
Children 10–14 years (where a physician-directed liquid formulation is used)Approx. 15 mL of 87.5 mg/5 mL suspensionEvery 30–60 minutes as needed8 doses in 24 hours, under medical guidance
Children 5–9 yearsApprox. 7.5 mL of 87.5 mg/5 mL suspensionEvery 30–60 minutes as needed8 doses in 24 hours, under medical guidance
Children under 12 (OTC self-use)Consult a physician before use — see Use in Special Populations

Do not use for more than 2 days for diarrhea unless directed by a physician.

As part of combination therapy for H. pylori eradication

When used as part of a physician-prescribed quadruple regimen, a typical adult dose is 525 mg (two 262 mg tablets) four times daily, combined with specific antibiotics and an acid-suppressing agent, for a course typically lasting 10–14 days. Exact dosing and duration must follow the prescribing physician's regimen; do not adjust the regimen independently.

Side Effects of Bismuth Subsalicylate

Common and expected effects of Bismuth Subsalicylate:

  • Temporary, harmless darkening (grayish-black) of the tongue and/or stool — this is expected and should be distinguished from melena (blood in stool); it resolves after stopping the medicine.
  • Mild constipation

Less common/serious effects (usually associated with high-dose or prolonged use):

  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or hearing changes — an early sign of salicylate toxicity; discontinue and seek medical advice
  • Rare bismuth-related neurotoxicity (confusion, unsteady gait) with prolonged excessive dosing
  • Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, itching)

Contraindications of Bismuth Subsalicylate

Bismuth Subsalicylate is contraindicated in:

  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to salicylates (including aspirin) or to bismuth-containing compounds
  • Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chickenpox or influenza-like illness, due to the risk of Reye's syndrome associated with the salicylate component
  • Patients with active gastrointestinal bleeding

Frequently Asked Questions about Bismuth Subsalicylate

What is Bismuth Subsalicylate used for?

Bismuth Subsalicylate is used for the symptomatic relief of diarrhea (including travelers' diarrhea), upset stomach, indigestion, heartburn, and nausea. It is also used, in combination with antibiotics and an acid-reducing medicine, as part of a physician-prescribed regimen to help eradicate Helicobacter pylori infection.

Can I take Bismuth Subsalicylate if I am also taking aspirin?

You should avoid taking Bismuth Subsalicylate together with aspirin or other salicylate-containing medicines. Because Bismuth Subsalicylate itself contains a salicylate, combining it with aspirin increases the risk of additive salicylate toxicity (symptoms such as ringing in the ears, nausea, or rapid breathing). Speak to your physician or pharmacist before combining them.

Is it normal for my tongue or stool to turn black after taking Bismuth Subsalicylate?

Yes. Bismuth Subsalicylate commonly causes a harmless, temporary grayish-black discoloration of the tongue and/or stool. This is expected and is not a sign of bleeding. However, if you notice true blood in the stool or are unsure, stop use and contact your physician, as this could also indicate active gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a contraindication to using Bismuth Subsalicylate.

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women take Bismuth Subsalicylate?

Bismuth Subsalicylate should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly needed, and only after consulting a physician, because data on its safety in these situations are limited and it contains a salicylate. Your physician will weigh the potential benefits against potential risks before recommending its use.

How long can I safely use Bismuth Subsalicylate for diarrhea?

For self-treatment of diarrhea or upset stomach, Bismuth Subsalicylate should not be used for more than 2 days. If diarrhea persists beyond 2 days, is accompanied by high fever, or if you notice blood in the stool, stop using Bismuth Subsalicylate and see a physician promptly, as these may indicate a more serious condition requiring different treatment.

What should I do if I think I have taken too much Bismuth Subsalicylate?

If you suspect you or someone else has taken more than the recommended amount of Bismuth Subsalicylate, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center right away. Overdose can cause salicylate toxicity, with symptoms such as ringing in the ears, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, or confusion. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking help.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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