What happens if you accidentally take Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Risks of Taking Pepto-Bismol While Breastfeeding
Pepto-Bismol, a popular over-the-counter remedy for digestive issues, contains bismuth subsalicylate, which is effective for treating symptoms like upset stomach and diarrhea. However, for breastfeeding mothers, the question of safety becomes paramount. What happens if a nursing mother accidentally takes Pepto-Bismol?
The Ingredients and Their Implications
The primary concern with Pepto-Bismol lies in its active ingredients. Bismuth subsalicylate can break down into salicylates, which are chemically related to aspirin. This is particularly significant because salicylates are known to pose risks to infants, including the potential for Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can cause liver and brain damage in children.
While there is limited data on the exact effects of Pepto-Bismol on breastfeeding, health experts generally advise against its use during this period. The salicylates can pass into breast milk, raising concerns about the safety of the nursing infant.
Immediate Effects and Recommendations
If a breastfeeding mother accidentally takes Pepto-Bismol, the immediate recommendation is not to panic. According to health guidelines, it is not necessary to “pump and dump” breast milk after taking the medication. Mothers can continue breastfeeding their babies immediately after ingestion. This is because the amount of salicylate that might transfer into breast milk is likely minimal and may not pose a significant risk in a single instance.
However, it is crucial for nursing mothers to monitor their infants for any unusual symptoms, such as excessive drowsiness or unusual behavior, which could indicate a reaction. If any concerning symptoms arise, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.
Long-Term Considerations
For mothers who find themselves needing relief from digestive issues while breastfeeding, it is essential to explore safer alternatives. Many healthcare providers recommend non-medication approaches, such as dietary adjustments or natural remedies, which can alleviate symptoms without the associated risks of medications like Pepto-Bismol.
In summary, while an accidental dose of Pepto-Bismol is not likely to cause immediate harm to a breastfeeding infant, it is best to avoid its use altogether. Nursing mothers should always consult with healthcare professionals before taking any medication to ensure the safety of both themselves and their babies.

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 I breastfeed my baby if I have upset stomach?

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.

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.

Why is Pepto-Bismol illegal in France?

Due to the known risk of long-term toxicity, bismuth is unavailable in many countries,31 with bismuth subgallate use being restricted in France and banned in Australia.

What if I took Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

It isn’t clinically known if Pepto-Bismol passes into breast milk. However, it is known that other types of salicylates pass into breast milk and may have harmful effects on a breastfeeding child. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests using caution with salicylates such as Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding.

How long does Pepto-Bismol last 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.

Is Pepto-Bismol safe for infants?

This medicine should not be used in children younger than 12 years of age. The fluid loss caused by diarrhea may result in a severe condition.

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 happens if you accidentally take Pepto while pregnant?

Research has not confirmed that Pepto-Bismol is safe to take during pregnancy. It contains salicylate, which may increase the risk of bleeding. Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter medication used to relieve an upset stomach, heartburn, and diarrhea.

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.