WikiDrug / Digestive health / Bismuth subsalicylate

Bismuth subsalicylate liquid for diarrhea and upset stomach relief

Overview

Bismuth subsalicylate liquid is an over-the-counter medication used primarily to relieve diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, and various symptoms of upset stomach such as heartburn, indigestion, nausea, gas, belching, and fullness. It acts as an antidiarrheal agent and stomach discomfort reliever.

What is it used for?

  • Relief of diarrhea and traveler's diarrhea in adults and children 12 years and older.
  • Relief of upset stomach symptoms caused by overindulgence in food and drink, including heartburn, indigestion, nausea, gas, belching, and fullness.

Active ingredients

Bismuth subsalicylate 262 mg per 15 mL dose

How it works

Bismuth subsalicylate contains a bismuth salt combined with salicylate. It helps reduce diarrhea by reducing inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract. It also soothes upset stomach symptoms by its antacid and mild anti-inflammatory effects.

Dosage and administration

Directions for adults and children 12 years and older:

  • For diarrhea and traveler's diarrhea: Take 30 mL (1 dose) every half hour or 60 mL (2 doses) every hour as needed.
  • For upset stomach symptoms due to overindulgence: Take 30 mL (1 dose) every half hour as needed.
  • Do not exceed 8 doses (240 mL) in 24 hours.
  • Use the product until diarrhea stops but no longer than 2 days.

Children under 12 years:

Ask a doctor before use.

Additional instructions:

  • Shake well before use.
  • Drink plenty of clear fluids to prevent dehydration from diarrhea.

Contraindications

  • Do not use if allergic to salicylates including aspirin.
  • Do not use if you have an ulcer or bleeding problem.
  • Do not use if you have bloody or black stools.

Warnings and precautions

Serious warnings and precautions:

  • Reye's syndrome: Do not give to children or teenagers who have or are recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms. If behavioral changes with nausea and vomiting appear during use, seek medical advice immediately.
  • Allergy alert: Contains salicylate. Do not use if allergic to salicylates (including aspirin) or if taking other salicylate products.
  • Do not use if you have an ulcer, bleeding problem, or bloody or black stool.
  • Consult a doctor before use if you have fever or mucus in stool.
  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking drugs for anticoagulation, diabetes, gout, or arthritis.
  • Stop use and contact a doctor if symptoms worsen, diarrhea lasts more than 2 days, or if ringing in ears or hearing loss occurs.

Side effects

Common side effects:

  • Temporary darkening of the stool and/or tongue, which is harmless.

Serious side effects:

  • Ringing in ears or loss of hearing – stop use and consult a doctor immediately.

Drug interactions

  • May interact with other salicylate-containing products and anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional before use.

Overdose information

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Storage

  • Protect from freezing.
  • Avoid excessive heat above 104°F (40°C).

Manufacturer(s)

Medical references

  • U.S. National Library of Medicine – DailyMed
  • Official prescribing information
  • Other authoritative medical references, where applicable

References are used to support the medical information presented on this page.

Medical information disclaimer

The information on WikiDrug is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about medication use.

Last updated November 4, 2026