Do You Refrigerate Pepto-Bismol After Opening (2024)

FAQs

Do You Refrigerate Pepto-Bismol After Opening? ›

Tip: Pepto Bismol liquids do not need to be refrigerated, but some say it tastes better when cold. Pepto Bismol is just as effective when stored at room temperature or in the fridge—so the choice is up to you!

Pepto Bismol does not need to be refrigerated.

Official answer. It's best to discard expired medicines as the manufacturers do not guarantee the quality or efficacy of medicines past their expiry date.

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

You can eat and drink normally while taking Pepto-Bismol.

It takes 30 minutes to an hour for Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) to start working and help relieve diarrhea, upset stomach, and nausea. Sometimes referred to as "the pink stuff," Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that is safe and effective for short-term use.

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.

The best upset stomach medicine for you depends on the symptoms you're experiencing and what's causing it. Antacids (such as Tums and Rolaids) are a good choice for heartburn and sour stomach. And medicines that contain bismuth subsalicylate (like Pepto-Bismol) can help treat diarrhea and nausea.

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.

Alpha-galactosidase, an enzyme found in Beano, can help break down some non-digestible carbohydrates, like those in beans and some vegetables. Bismuth subsalicylate, the active ingredient in products, such as Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate, may help reduce the odor of bad-smelling gas.

Is Pepto better on an empty stomach? ›

If you are taking the chewable tablet, take this medication on an empty stomach. The chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. If you are using the rapidly dissolving tablets, dry your hands before opening the blister pack to carefully remove a tablet.

Pepto-Bismol side effects are typically mild. Nausea, a bitter taste, and a blackened tongue are possible. Rarely, Pepto-Bismol can cause serious side effects, such as Reye's syndrome in children and allergic reactions in those with aspirin allergies. It should be avoided if you're pregnant.

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.

Tip: Pepto Bismol liquids do not need to be refrigerated, but some say it tastes better when cold. Pepto Bismol is just as effective when stored at room temperature or in the fridge—so the choice is up to you!

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.

Pepto-Bismol contains salicylates (also found in aspirin) and can affect some other medicines. To make sure Pepto-Bismol is safe for you, tell your doctor or a pharmacist if you are taking: an anticoagulant – medicines that help to prevent blood clots. tablets or other oral medicines for diabetes.

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 bottom line. 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.