How long does it take for Pepto Bismol to work? (2024)

Medically reviewed by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD. Last updated on May 22, 2024.

How long does it take for Pepto Bismol to work? (1)

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Pepto-Bismol (also known as the “pink stuff”) is a medication that is commonly used to treat diarrhea and upset stomach. It is available over the counter as an oral liquid, capsules, and chewable tablets. Pepto-Bismol usually works within 30 to 60 minutes.

What is Pepto-Bismol used for?

The active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol, bismuth subsalicylate, works to relieve upset stomach and is also an antidiarrheal. Pepto-Bismol can be taken for the following stomach problems:

  • Traveler’s diarrhea
  • Diarrhea
  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion
  • Nausea
  • Gas
  • Burping
  • Fullness

How often can you take Pepto-Bismol?

Adults and children 12 years and older can take one dose of Pepto-Bismol every 30 to 60 minutes until symptoms improve. Do not take more than 8 doses in 24 hours, and do not take Pepto-Bismol for more than 2 days to treat your symptoms without consulting your doctor.

Make sure to read the instructions on the packaging, since Pepto-Bismol comes as a liquid, capsules, and chewable tablets. This means the amount you need to take for each dose varies.

Pepto-Bismol may not be the best option for everyone. It is not recommended for the following situations:

  • People with an active stomach ulcer, a bleeding problem, or who have bloody or black stools
  • Children or teens who are recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms because of the risk of a serious illness called Reye’s syndrome
  • Pregnant women

Additionally, if you have a fever or mucus in your stool, ask your doctor before using Pepto-Bismol.

Related questions

  • Can you give Pepto Bismol to kids?
  • Why does Pepto-Bismol turn your tongue black?
  • Does Pepto-Bismol help with diarrhea?

Can you take Pepto-Bismol for stomach pain?

Yes. Pepto-Bismol can be used for an upset stomach that is due to eating too much food or drink. However, if your stomach symptoms are not going away after taking Pepto-Bismol or are severe, you should get medical attention.

References

Pepto-Bismol [package insert]. Revised 10/2023. The Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company - https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=67006e82-870d-8d63-e053-2991aa0a02d1

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Updated June 2022). Pregnant Travelers. Available from: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/pregnant-travelers

Pepto-bismol.com. When and How to Take Pepto Bismol. Accessed May 22, 2024 at https://pepto-bismol.com/en-us/faq/dosage

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Drug information

  • Pepto-Bismol Information for Consumers
  • Side Effects of Pepto-Bismol(detailed)

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Medical Disclaimer

How long does it take for Pepto Bismol to work? (2024)

FAQs

How long does it take for Pepto Bismol to work? ›

Pepto-Bismol should work within 30 to 60 minutes. You can have another dose after 30 to 60 minutes, if you need to. You can take up to 8 doses in 24 hours. Are there other indigestion medicines?

Does Pepto-Bismol give instant relief? ›

It can take half an hour for an hour for Pepto to "kick in." If it doesn't offer relief in that time, do not take another dose right away. Follow dosing instructions provided on the product packaging.

Are you supposed to drink water after taking Pepto-Bismol? ›

If you're taking Pepto-Bismol for diarrhoea, make sure you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

How long does it take Pepto to clear your system? ›

A few days after you stop using Pepto-Bismol, your tongue discoloration should go away on its own, so you don't really need to do anything. Pepto-Bismol is usually out of your system in one day, but it can take several days for the side effect to go away.

What symptoms does Pepto-Bismol cure? ›

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.

How long after taking Pepto-Bismol will I feel better? ›

When will I feel better? Pepto-Bismol should work within 30 to 60 minutes. You can have another dose after 30 to 60 minutes, if you need to. You can take up to 8 doses in 24 hours.

Does Pepto settle your stomach? ›

Pepto-Bismol is an OTC upset stomach medicine that can also treat diarrhea. The active ingredient is bismuth subsalicylate. It works by slowing down movement in your stomach and intestines. It also lessens chemicals that can irritate your stomach.

When should you not take Pepto-Bismol? ›

Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pepto-Bismol is not suitable for some people. To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have: ever had an allergic reaction to bismuth subsalicylate or any of the other ingredients in Pepto-Bismol or Pepti Calm.

Can you throw up Pepto-Bismol? ›

Mild symptoms of salicylate toxicity can include: Nausea. Vomiting. Stomach pain.

Should you brush your teeth after taking Pepto-Bismol? ›

Rinse your mouth after taking antacids, and after eating acidic foods. Consume less acidic foods and drinks. To protect enamel, wait about 30 minutes to brush after eating antacids or acidic foods.

Why does my poop come out in small soft pieces? ›

Mushy stool with fluffy pieces that have a pudding-shaped consistency is an early stage of diarrhea. This form of stool has passed through the colon quickly due to stress or a dramatic change in diet or activity level. When mushy stool occurs, it's hard to control the urge or timing of the bowel movement.

How to move your bowels quickly? ›

Try These Tricks for Quick Bowel Movement Stimulation
  1. Drink coffee. Regarding drinks that make you poop, coffee is probably the first that comes to mind. ...
  2. Squat when you poop. ...
  3. Use a fiber supplement. ...
  4. Take a stimulant laxative. ...
  5. Take an osmotic laxative. ...
  6. Take a lubricant laxative. ...
  7. Try a stool softener. ...
  8. Use a suppository.
Aug 2, 2022

What if Pepto doesn't work? ›

Heartburn Relief

If your heartburn doesn't start to subside once the medication kicks in and your diet has been modified, then it's time to talk to your doctor to see if further evaluation is needed,” Dr.

Why is Pepto-Bismol illegal in France? ›

Over-the-counter medicine for traveler's diarrhea is regulated, too. Pepto-Bismol is not sold in France due to a health scare in the 1970s.

Does Pepto stop bowel movement? ›

This medication is used to treat sudden diarrhea (including traveler's diarrhea). It works by slowing down the movement of the gut. This decreases the number of bowel movements and makes the stool less watery.

Will Pepto-Bismol prolong a stomach virus? ›

However, in some cases, Pepto-Bismol may prolong a stomach virus. This is because diarrhea is the body's way of getting rid of the virus, and treating diarrhea may slow this process down. Most of the time, a stomach virus will resolve on its own with at-home care.

What form of Pepto works fastest? ›

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] These LiquiCaps help me instantly relieve discomfort from nausea, heartburn and indigestion! I find that these work faster than any other capsules and provide me with quick relief. They are also really easy to swallow and are the perfect sized capsule.

How to get rid of a stomach ache fast? ›

However, some remedies that may help settle an upset stomach include drinking water or clear liquids, eating small and frequent meals, avoiding greasy or spicy foods, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding tobacco and caffeine. Over-the-counter medications such as antacids or antidiarrheal drugs may also provide relief.

Will Pepto-Bismol stop diarrhea? ›

Imodium A-D and Pepto-Bismol are effective and convenient treatment options for diarrhea in adults. They can help to lower the frequency of watery and loose stools. And Pepto-Bismol can provide relief for an upset stomach, too. However, they're not meant to treat all types of diarrhea.

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