Overview
It contains a salicylate, a relative of aspirin.
What it's used for
- Diarrhea, including traveler's diarrhea
- Upset stomach, indigestion, and nausea
- Part of H. pylori treatment
How to take it
- Follow the label. Don't use it for more than 2 days for diarrhea without seeing a provider.
- Shake liquids well.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Black tongue or black stools (harmless)
- Constipation
Warnings
- Don't give it to children or teens who have or are recovering from flu or chickenpox (Reye's syndrome risk).
- Don't use if you're allergic to aspirin.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Blood thinners and aspirin add to bleeding risk.
- It can lower absorption of doxycycline and other tetracyclines.
- Diabetes and gout medicines may be affected.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid in pregnancy, especially the third trimester, unless your provider says so.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Bismuth subsalicylate (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.