Does Pepto-Bismol always turn tongues black the next day?

Question

I tend to get stomach problems when traveling so I was thinking about bringing some Pepto-Bismol with me but I heard it turns your tongue black the next day which I can't have if I'm going to important events. How often of an occurrence is this? Is there any way to prevent it (maybe cutting up the tablet and taking it whole instead of swallowing it?)

Answer 1

If there is sufficient sulfer in your mouth, yes.

The active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is a compound called bismuth subsalicylate. This compound has anti-bacterial, anti-diarrheal, and antacid effect on the digestive tract. This is why Pepto-Bismol helps with stomach discomfort.

When the bismuth combines with the trace amounts of sulfur in your saliva and in your gastrointestinal tract, it reacts to form a black substance called bismuth sulfide.

Bismuth sulfide is where the discoloration on your tongue comes from. It is a common side-effect that is listed in the package information.

Typically, it will take your tongue about 3 days to return to its normal color.

Answer 2

Bismuth subsalicylate, the active ingredient, can cause black tongue and black stools when it reacts with sulfur in saliva or in the gastrointestinal tract. It lasts a few days at most and and is harmless.