Pepto-Bismol while nursing
Is it safe to take Pepto-Bismol if I am breastfeeding? I have avoided it, because I think it may contain aspirin - is that really true?
Question:Debbi Donovan
Debbi Donovan is a Board Certified Lactation Consultant, as well as a retired La Leche League Leader. For more than a decade, Debbi... Read more
Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is used to treat diarrhea and relieve the symptoms of an upset stomach.
Though the bismuth salts are poorly absorbed, "significant levels of salicylate could be absorbed." Since there's a concern with the use of salicylates (such as aspirin) in children, it's not a good choice for nursing mothers.
Talk with your doctor about alternate medications that will be safer to use while breastfeeding.
Answer:
