Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Bismuth-Subsalicylate?
3. What is Bismuth-Subsalicylate Used to Treat?
4. Do You Need a Prescription for Bismuth-Subsalicylate?
5. How Does Bismuth-Subsalicylate Work?
6. Common Side Effects of Bismuth-Subsalicylate
7. What Should You Not Take with Bismuth-Subsalicylate?
8. Conclusion

Introduction

Bismuth-Subsalicylate is a medication used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea, nausea, and indigestion. It is a combination of bismuth and salicylate, two compounds that work together to reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines. Bismuth-Subsalicylate is available over-the-counter and is relatively inexpensive. In this article, we will discuss what Bismuth-Subsalicylate is, what it is used to treat, whether or not you need a prescription for it, how it works, common side effects, and what you should not take with it.

What is Bismuth-Subsalicylate?

Bismuth-Subsalicylate is a combination of bismuth and salicylate. Bismuth is an element found in nature and is used in a variety of medications. Salicylate is a compound found in plants, such as willow bark, and is used to reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines. Bismuth-Subsalicylate is available in both tablet and liquid form and is often used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, nausea, and indigestion.

What is Bismuth-Subsalicylate Used to Treat?

Bismuth-Subsalicylate is used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea, nausea, and indigestion. It is also used to treat traveler’s diarrhea, which is caused by consuming contaminated food or water while traveling. Bismuth-Subsalicylate is also used to treat peptic ulcers, which are sores that form in the lining of the stomach or small intestine.

Do You Need a Prescription for Bismuth-Subsalicylate?

No, you do not need a prescription for Bismuth-Subsalicylate. It is available over-the-counter and is relatively inexpensive. However, it is important to speak with your doctor before taking any medication, even if it is available over-the-counter.

How Does Bismuth-Subsalicylate Work?

Bismuth-Subsalicylate works by reducing inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines. Bismuth works by coating the lining of the stomach and intestines, which helps to reduce irritation and inflammation. Salicylate works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that can cause inflammation and irritation.

Common Side Effects of Bismuth-Subsalicylate

The most common side effects of Bismuth-Subsalicylate include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and black stools. Other less common side effects include headache, dizziness, and rash. If you experience any of these side effects, it is important to speak with your doctor.

What Should You Not Take with Bismuth-Subsalicylate?

You should not take Bismuth-Subsalicylate with other medications, such as antacids, antibiotics, or blood thinners. It is also important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Bismuth-Subsalicylate, as it can increase the risk of side effects.

Conclusion

Bismuth-Subsalicylate is a medication used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea, nausea, and indigestion. It is available over-the-counter and is relatively inexpensive. It works by reducing inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and black stools. You should not take Bismuth-Subsalicylate with other medications, such as antacids, antibiotics, or blood thinners. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking any medication, even if it is available over-the-counter.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Bismuth subsalicylate. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/bismuth-subsalicylate-oral-route/description/drg-20069147

2. National Institutes of Health. (2020). Bismuth subsalicylate. Retrieved from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/bismuth-subsalicylate