What happens if I take Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Risks of Taking Pepto-Bismol While Breastfeeding
For new mothers navigating the challenges of breastfeeding, the question of medication safety is paramount. One common over-the-counter remedy, Pepto-Bismol, often comes into consideration for digestive issues. However, its use during breastfeeding raises important health concerns.
What is Pepto-Bismol?
Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate, a compound primarily used to treat symptoms like nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, and diarrhea. While it is generally considered safe for adults, its implications for breastfeeding mothers and their infants are less clear.
Safety Concerns for Breastfeeding Mothers
The primary concern with Pepto-Bismol during breastfeeding lies in its active ingredient, salicylate. Research indicates that salicylates can pass into breast milk, which poses potential risks for infants. Specifically, salicylates are linked to Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can cause swelling in the liver and brain, particularly in children.
Experts generally advise against the use of Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding. The National Health Service (NHS) explicitly states that breastfeeding mothers should avoid this medication due to the potential risks associated with salicylate exposure. Although some sources suggest that the risk level is categorized as L2, indicating it is fairly safe, the consensus leans towards caution.
Potential Effects on Infants
While the exact amount of bismuth subsalicylate that transfers into breast milk is not well-studied, there is enough concern to warrant avoidance. The possibility that even small amounts could affect a breastfeeding infant is significant. Symptoms of salicylate toxicity in infants can include vomiting, lethargy, and confusion, which are alarming for any parent.
Alternatives and Recommendations
For mothers experiencing digestive discomfort, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for safer alternatives. Options such as dietary adjustments, hydration, and other medications that are confirmed to be safe during breastfeeding may be recommended.
In summary, while Pepto-Bismol may provide relief for digestive issues, its use during breastfeeding is fraught with potential risks. The presence of salicylates in breast milk and their association with serious health conditions in infants make it prudent for breastfeeding mothers to seek alternative treatments. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication while breastfeeding to ensure the safety of both mother and child.

How long does Pepto-Bismol stay in 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 happens if you accidentally take Pepto while pregnant?

After taking Pepto Bismol, a mother’s bloodstream contains about as much salicylate as if she had taken a dose of regular aspirin. Salicylate cross the placenta, so the baby can be exposed. The potential exists for low birth weight, jaundice, bleeding, and birth defects.

Is it safe to breastfeed after taking Pepto-Bismol?

Do not take Pepto-Bismol if you’re breastfeeding. If you do need a medicine, speak to you doctor or pharmacist who will be able to advise on other options that are more suitable.

Is Pepto-Bismol safe while breastfeeding for Reye’s syndrome?

There are currently no reports of Reye’s syndrome in babies exposed to bismuth subsalicylate and it is normally only used very short term for stomach upset. Breastfeeding mothers would be well advised to use alternative products to treat acute diarrhoea E.g. loperamine (Imodium®) if possible.

What medicine can breastfeeding moms take for upset stomach?

Medicines For Digestive Problems
Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby. For a sour stomach or heartburn, Tums and Rolaids are safe to use. Look for the ingredients calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

When is it not safe to 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.

How long does it take for Pepto-Bismol to leave your system?

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.

What are the nursing considerations for Pepto-Bismol?

Nursing Considerations: Bismuth subsalicylate contains salicylate. It should be avoided if the client has an allergy to salicylates (including aspirin) or if the client is taking other salicylate products such as aspirin. It should not be used if the client has an ulcer, a bleeding problem, or bloody or black stool.

Can an upset stomach harm my unborn baby?

Can a stomach bug harm my unborn baby? While stomach bugs are typically unpleasant for pregnant women, they usually don’t pose a direct threat to the unborn baby. However, severe dehydration or complications from the illness could potentially impact the pregnancy.

Can upset stomach pass through breast milk?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.