Pepto Bismol chewable dosage for adults and children 12 and over is 2 tablets every 30 minutes, or 4 tablets every hour, up to 16 tablets in 24 hours. Each tablet contains 262 mg of bismuth subsalicylate, the same active ingredient in Pepto Bismol liquid. This guide covers how to take Pepto Bismol chewable tablets, what is in them, and when to call a doctor.

What Pepto Bismol chewable tablets treat

Pepto Bismol chewables relieve 5 stomach symptoms with one active ingredient:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Upset stomach

Bismuth subsalicylate coats the stomach to soothe irritation. For diarrhea, it helps calm the gut and firm up stools. That makes Pepto Bismol chewables for diarrhea a common pick for travel bags, desk drawers and first aid kits.

Pepto Bismol chewable tablets dosage for adults

These directions apply to Original Pepto Bismol chewable tablets (262 mg). Always follow the Drug Facts label on your box.

• Chew the tablets or let them dissolve in your mouth. No water is needed.
• Do not use for more than 2 days. If diarrhea lasts longer, see a doctor.
• Drink plenty of clear fluids to help prevent dehydration caused by diarrhea.

One dose of 2 tablets gives 524 mg of bismuth subsalicylate, about the same as a 30 mL dose of Original Pepto Bismol liquid (525 mg).

Pepto Bismol chewable tablets ingredients

Active ingredient (per tablet): bismuth subsalicylate 262 mg.

Inactive ingredients (Original): calcium carbonate, D&C Red No. 27 aluminum lake, flavor, magnesium stearate, mannitol, povidone, saccharin sodium, talc.

Chewables come in Original (wintergreen) and Cherry. Check your box, since inactive ingredients vary slightly by flavor.

Side effects and warnings

• Dark tongue or stool. Bismuth can turn your tongue or stool black for a few days. This is temporary and harmless.
• Salicylate allergy. Do not use if you are allergic to aspirin or other salicylates, or take other salicylate products.
• Reye's syndrome. Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chickenpox or flu like symptoms should not use this product.
• Do not use if you have an ulcer, a bleeding problem, or bloody or black stool not caused by the medicine.
• Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medicine for blood thinning, diabetes, gout or arthritis, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Stop and call a doctor if symptoms get worse, last more than 2 days, or you notice ringing in the ears.

Is Children's Pepto the same as Pepto Bismol chewables?

No. Children's Pepto (Pepto Kids) chewable tablets contain calcium carbonate, an antacid, not bismuth subsalicylate. They are made for heartburn and sour stomach in children ages 2 to 11. Do not give regular Pepto Bismol chewable tablets to children under 12.

Frequently asked questions

How many Pepto Bismol chewable tablets can I take in a day?

Up to 16 tablets (8 doses of 2) in 24 hours, for no more than 2 days.

Can I take Pepto Bismol chewables for diarrhea?

Yes. Take 2 tablets every 30 minutes or 4 every hour as needed, and drink clear fluids.

Is Pepto Bismol 262 mg the same as the liquid?

The active ingredient is the same. Two 262 mg tablets equal about one 30 mL dose of Original liquid.

Is Pepto Bismol an antacid?

Pepto Bismol relieves heartburn and indigestion, but its active ingredient is bismuth subsalicylate, not a classic antacid. Children's Pepto is the antacid version.

Why did my tongue turn black?

Bismuth reacts with small amounts of sulfur in your mouth and gut. It is harmless and fades within a few days of stopping.

Shop Pepto Bismol chewables

Keep a box at home and one in your travel bag. Pepto Bismol Chewables for Diarrhea, 48 Count ships the same business day from ABD Medical in Dayton, Ohio. Prefer a liquid? See Pepto Bismol Liquid, 16 oz, or compare both in Pepto Bismol Liquid vs Chewable Tablets.

This article is for general information and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the Drug Facts label.