Bismuth subsalicylate is the active ingredient in the popular medication Pepto-Bismol that is used to treat nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, diarrhea and other temporary discomforts of the stomach and gastrointestinal tract. It is also the main ingredient of Kaopectate (since 2003, replacing attapulgite).

It displays anti-inflammatory action (due to salicylate) and also acts as an antacid and mild antibiotic.

It can also cause a black tongue in some users of the drug.

See also

• bismuth
• salicylate

External links

• Drug information page at the National Institutes of Health
• Pepto-Bismol homepage
• Kaopectate homepage

Bismuth compounds | Over-the-counter substances | Gastrointestinal system drugs