Why can't I take Bismuth Subsalicylate (Generic Pepto Bismol) with an ulcer?


Question:
I've been having some stomach problems so I bought same good ol' Pepto but i'm broke and I got the generic kind. Well I looked at the warnings and it said I cant take it with an ulcer. So I looked onlineand everything I said says it helps ulcers. Does anyone know why?

Answers:
Any aspirin derivative (salicylate) has the potential to increase bleeding, which you do not want if you have an ulcer. Salicylate weakens the membranes in the lining of your stomach, making it easier for the acid in your stomach to cause damage. THAT is why the label cautions against use of this product if you have an ulcer.

Other Answers:
That seems strange because usually you can take it for an ulcer. Check with your doctor. Pepto Bismol is not that much more expensive than the generic, so you might try that.
well, firstly...never fret about buying a generic drug - the FDA requires that they are identical in every way to the brand name (except for inactive ingredients such as color or flavor - which can be different). If it says on the bottle to not take with an ulcer, then I guarentee the brand name drug has the same warning. I'm going to take a guess and say that the drug company puts this on there as they do not want any liability if the drug were to make the ulcer worse or cause discomfort. Your best bet would be to talk to the pharmacist (or the doc) and ask if it truly is something to be concerned about - these days drugs have to list EVERY possible interaction and side effect, even if the occurance is slim to none. I personally cannot think of a reason it would be unwise to use the pepto, as like you said- many use it to treat discomfort caused by ulcers, but again - check with your pharmacist and/or doc to be certain before you take it. If it turns out you cannot take it, try OTC Prilosec - much more expensive than pepto, but has been used to treat ulcers ever since it was by prescription only, and with regular use has been shown to help heal peptic ulcers (depending on cause of course - some types need different treatment).
Pepto is ok for relieving discomfort for a short period of time, but Prilosec is much more effective and works for 24 hours.


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