Pepto Bismol liquid dosage for adults and children 12 and over is 30 mL (2 tablespoons) of Original strength every 30 minutes, up to 240 mL in 24 hours. Ultra strength is twice as concentrated, so the dose is half: 15 mL every 30 minutes, up to 120 mL a day. Here is how to take each one, what is in the bottle, and how the flavors compare.

Pepto Bismol liquid dosage for adults

• Shake well and measure with the dose cup that comes with the bottle.
• Use until diarrhea stops, but no more than 2 days.
• Drink plenty of clear fluids to help prevent dehydration.
• Children under 12: ask a doctor. Do not use regular Pepto Bismol.

Pepto Bismol liquid for diarrhea and upset stomach

The pink liquid relieves 5 symptoms: diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, indigestion and upset stomach. Its active ingredient, bismuth subsalicylate, coats the stomach to calm irritation. For diarrhea, the label allows a larger dose (60 mL of Original every hour) than for heartburn or nausea (30 mL every 30 minutes). Shop Pepto Bismol liquid for diarrhea.

Pepto Bismol liquid ingredients

Active ingredient: bismuth subsalicylate, 525 mg per 30 mL (Original).

Inactive ingredients (Original): benzoic acid, D&C Red 22, D&C Red 28, flavor, gellan gum, magnesium aluminum silicate, methylcellulose, salicylic acid, sodium salicylate, sorbic acid, sucralose, water.

Each 30 mL dose contains 261 mg of salicylate, 4 mg of sodium and 5 mg of magnesium. Store it away from freezing and above 104°F.

Original vs Cherry vs Ultra

• Original flavor: the classic pink liquid with a wintergreen taste.
• Cherry flavor: the same medicine with a cherry taste, for people who dislike wintergreen.
• Ultra (max strength): double strength, so you take half as much. Comes in Original and Cherry.
• Sizes: 4 oz (118 mL) travel size, 8 oz, 12 oz and 16 oz (473 mL, often listed as 480 mL).

Side effects and warnings

• Dark tongue or stool. Temporary and harmless.
• Salicylate allergy. Do not use if you are allergic to aspirin or other salicylates.
• Reye's syndrome. Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chickenpox or flu like symptoms should not use it.
• Do not use with an ulcer, a bleeding problem, or bloody or black stool not caused by the medicine.
• Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take blood thinners or medicine for diabetes, gout or arthritis, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Stop and call a doctor if symptoms last more than 2 days or you notice ringing in the ears.

Frequently asked questions

How much Pepto Bismol liquid should an adult take?

30 mL of Original every 30 minutes as needed, or 60 mL every hour for diarrhea, up to 240 mL in 24 hours.

What is the difference between Pepto Bismol and Pepto Bismol Ultra?

Ultra has twice the bismuth subsalicylate per mL. You take 15 mL instead of 30 mL for the same dose.

Does cherry Pepto Bismol work the same as Original?

Yes. The active ingredient and dose are the same at the same strength. Only the flavor changes.

Is there a children's Pepto Bismol liquid?

Regular Pepto Bismol liquid is for ages 12 and over. Children's Pepto is a different product made with calcium carbonate. Ask a doctor before treating a child.

Can I take Pepto Bismol liquid with other medicine?

Ask a pharmacist first if you take blood thinners, diabetes, gout or arthritis medicine, or any aspirin product.

Shop Pepto Bismol liquid

Pepto Bismol Liquid for Diarrhea, 16 oz ships the same business day from ABD Medical. Need something for your bag? Pepto Bismol Chewables, 48 Count need no water or measuring. Not sure which to pick? Read 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.