I hope that this is helpful ...

bismuth subsalicylate - oral, Pepto-Bismol, Pink Bismuth

GENERIC NAME: BISMUTH SUBSALICYLATE - ORAL (BIZ-muth SUB-sa-LIS-i-late)

BRAND NAME(S): Pepto-Bismol, Pink Bismuth

USES: This medication is used to treat occasional upset stomach, heartburn, and nausea. It is also used to treat diarrhea and help prevent travelers' diarrhea. It works by helping to slow the growth of bacteria that might be causing the diarrhea. This product should not be used to self-treat diarrhea if you also have a fever or blood/mucus in the stools. These could be signs of a serious health condition. Consult your doctor promptly for proper evaluation and treatment if you have these symptoms.This medication is used under a doctor's direction with other medication to treat stomach ulcers caused by a certain bacteria (Helicobacter pylori). Do not use this medication to self-treat ulcers. Bismuth subsalicylate is a salicylate. Salicylates can cause serious bleeding problems when used alone in patients with ulcers.Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before. The manufacturer may have changed the ingredients. Also, products with similar names may contain different ingredients meant for different purposes. Taking the wrong product could harm you.

Traveler's diarrhea (prophylaxis)]1—Bismuth subsalicylate is used for the prevention of secretory diarrhea produced by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (traveler's diarrhea) and viral infections.

Men and women are at equal risk for developing travelers' diarrhea. Younger individuals are more commonly afflicted, perhaps because of more adventurous eating habits. People with disorders that compromise their immune system (such as HIV, cancer, chemotherapy, steroid use), diabetics and people with underlying abdominal disorders (irritable bowel syndrome, colitis) are more susceptible to travelers' diarrhea. Interestingly, people on acid blockers for their stomachs [like famotidine (Pepcid), cimetidine (Tagamet), omeprazole (Prilosec), esomeprazole (Nexium)] also have a higher susceptibility to travelers' diarrhea because they have less stomach acid to protect them from the bacteria that cause the condition.
SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects from this medication are rare. The most common side effects are darkening of the stools and/or tongue. These effects are harmless and will disappear when you stop the medication.If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Persistent vomiting/diarrhea may result in a serious loss of body water (dehydration). Contact your doctor promptly if you notice any symptoms of dehydration, such as unusual decreased urination, unusual dry mouth/thirst, fast heartbeat, or dizziness/lightheadednessTell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: ringing ears, hearing loss.This drug may infrequently cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. If you notice any of the following unlikely but serious side effects, stop taking this medication and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: vomit that looks like coffee grounds, black/tarry/bloody stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.


http://www.medicinenet.com/tra...diarrhea/article.htm