This medicine is used for heartburn and acid reflux, indigestion, diarrhoea and feeling sick (nausea). It works by protecting your stomach and the lower part of your food pipe from stomach acid. It is also a mild antacid, which helps reduce too much stomach acid and eases any discomfort.
SIDE EFFECTS
You're unlikely to get any side effects from Pepto-Bismol if you follow the instructions for taking it.
One common side effect is your poo or your tongue turning black. This is harmless.
This happens when bismuth (the active ingredient in this medicine) comes into contact with small amounts of sulphur in your saliva and digestive system. They combine to form bismuth sulfide, a black substance. As it slowly makes its way out of your body you may see black poo.
This side effect usually goes away when you stop taking the medicine but it may take several days.
If your tongue or your poo is still black after you've stopped taking Pepto-Bismol for several days, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist.
Tell your doctor or a pharmacist if you have any other side effects that bother you or do not go away.