Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate).
Bleeding problems: Bismuth subsalicylate should not be used without a doctor's recommendation if you have ulcers, bleeding disorders or bloody or black stools.
Diabetes: Salicylate medications can cause decreased blood glucose control. If you have diabetes, discuss with your doctor how Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Diarrhea: If you have mucus in your diarrhea or if you also have a Fever, contact your doctor before using Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate). Diarrhea can cause dehydration, so ensure you are drinking enough fluids (e.g., oral rehydration solution). If you experience symptoms of dehydration (e.g., Dry Mouth, excessive thirst, decreased urine production, dizziness, lightheadedness), contact your doctor.
If you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or your symptoms get worse, contact your doctor.
Gout: Salicylate medications can make symptoms of gout worse or cause an attack of gout. If you have gout, discuss with your doctor how Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Kidney function: If you have reduced kidney function or Kidney Disease, discuss with your doctor how Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver function: Bismuth subsalicylate can build up in the body when the liver is not working properly. If you have reduced liver function or liver disease, discuss with your doctor how Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Reye's Syndrome: Children and adolescents who have or are recovering from chickenpox or other flu-like symptoms should not use Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate) as it may cause Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition. If you notice behavior changes along with nausea and vomiting in your child after treating with bismuth subsalicylate, contact your doctor immediately.
Pregnancy: Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if bismuth subsalicylate passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Pepto Bismol Forte (Bismuth-subsalicylate) have not been established for children less than 2 years of age.
