Bismuth Subsalicylate use while Breastfeeding
Drugs containing Bismuth Subsalicylate: Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate, Helidac, Pink Bismuth, Bismatrol, Maalox Total Relief, Stomach Relief, Kaopectate Anti-Diarrheal Upset Stomach Reliever, K-Pek, Kao-Tin Bismuth Subsalicylate Formula, Show all 19 »
Bismuth Subsalicylate Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
Because of the possibility of absorption of salicylate from the breastmilk by the infant, alternatives are preferred.[1]
Drug Levels
Maternal Levels. No published information was found on the use of bismuth subsalicylate during breastfeeding. Infant salicylate intake is estimated to be less than 1% of the maternal dose when both drug and metabolite are considered.[2]
Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects in Breastfed Infants
One case report of metabolic acidosis was caused by salicylate in a 16-day old breastfed infant whose mother was taking aspirin 650 mg every 4 hours for arthritis.[3] However, there was no measurement of salicylate in maternal serum or milk and it is unclear whether the infant had received any salicylate directly.
Possible Effects on Lactation
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Alternate Drugs to Consider
(Diarrhea) Loperamide, (Heartburn) Antacids, Cimetidine, Famotidine, Nizatidine, Omeprazole, Pantoprazole, Ranitidine
References
1. Lewis JH, Weingold AB and the Committee of FDA-Related Matters, American College of Gastroenterology. The use of gastrointestinal drugs during pregnancy and lactation. Am J Gastroenterol. 1985;80:912-23. PMID: 2864852
2. Levy G. Salicylate pharmacokinetics in the human neonate. In, Morselli PL, Garattini S, Sereni F, eds. Basic and therapeutic aspects of perinatal pharmacology. 1975; Raven Press: New York:319-30.
3. Clark JH, Wilson WG. A 16-day-old breast-fed infant with metabolic acidosis caused by salicylate. Clin Pediatr (Phila). 1981;20:53-4. PMID: 7449246
Bismuth Subsalicylate Identification
Substance Name
CAS Registry Number
14882-18-9
Drug Class
Administrative Information
LactMed Record Number
449
Information from the National Library of Medicine's LactMed Database.
Last Revision Date
2012-10-02
Disclaimer
Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. The U.S. government does not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.
See Also...
- Bismuth subsalicylate use during Pregnancy
- Bismuth subsalicylate Consumer Information
- Breastfeeding Support Group
- Safe Medications during Breastfeeding
- Medicine use while Breastfeeding
- Medicine use during Pregnancy
Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. Use of this website signifies your agreement to the Terms of Use and Online Privacy Policy.
