What is bismuth subcitrate tablet? From benefits to uses 💊

Bismuth subcitrate tablets are known as one of the most widely used drugs in the treatment of digestive ulcers and stomach problems. By creating a protective layer on the stomach mucosa, this medicine prevents the harmful effects of stomach acid and helps to heal stomach and duodenal ulcers faster. Also, bismuth subcitrate, due to its antibacterial properties, is especially effective in killing Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which is one of the common causes of stomach ulcers. Taking this medicine can play an effective role in reducing digestive symptoms and pains and improving stomach health. What is bismuth subcitrate medicine? Bismuth subcitrate is a drug commonly used to treat gastrointestinal problems, especially stomach and duodenal ulcers, and gastrointestinal infections. By creating a protective layer on the stomach wall, this drug helps to reduce the harmful effects of stomach acid and provides a suitable environment for wound healing. One of the important features of bismuth subcitrate is its antibacterial property, which is effective against Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that damages the stomach wall and is one of the common causes of stomach ulcers. **Bismuth subcitrate is used in combination with other antibacterial drugs to kill this bacteria** and is known as part of triple or quadruple therapy for gastrointestinal infections. Bismuth subcitrate, metronidazole, and tetracycline combination is used together with omeprazole to treat a stomach infection caused by the *Helicobacter pylori* bacteria and duodenal ulcer. This bacteria can cause stomach ulcers if it is not treated. The combination of bismuth subcitrate, metronidazole and tetracycline together with omeprazole is used to treat stomach infection caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria and duodenal ulcer. If left untreated, this bacteria can lead to stomach ulcers. Source: MayoClinic website How bismuth subcitrate works in the body Bismuth subcitrate works in the body in several different ways to protect stomach and intestinal health. By **creating a protective layer on the wall of the stomach and duodenum, this medicine protects the sensitive tissues of the stomach against the destructive effects of stomach acid and digestive enzymes**. This protective layer helps repair and heal wounds and reduces damage caused by stomach acid. In addition, bismuth subcitrate has antibacterial properties and is especially effective against Helicobacter pylori bacteria. This bacteria usually adheres to the stomach wall and causes inflammation and digestive ulcers**. Bismuth subcitrate helps to improve the patient's condition by disrupting the function of this bacterium and preventing its growth and reproduction. Among other effects of this drug, we can mention the reduction of gastric acid production and the reduction of gastric mucosa irritation. **These effects reduce symptoms such as pain and heartburn and wounds heal faster.** What are the uses of bismuth subcitrate tablets? Bismuth subcitrate is a medicine that acts as a digestive protector and is prescribed to reduce the symptoms of gastric and duodenal ulcers and accelerate their healing process. With its antibacterial properties, this drug is especially effective in treating infections caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which is one of the main causes of inflammation and gastrointestinal ulcers. In the following, we will examine the ingredients of bismuth subcitrate tablets: - **Gastric ulcer treatment**: Bismuth subcitrate by **creating a protective layer on the wall of the stomach and intestine**, helps to heal digestive ulcers and prevents the aggravation of damage caused by stomach acid. - ✅ **Combating Helicobacter pylori**: This drug is used in combination with antibiotics to **treat Helicobacter pylori infection** which is a common cause of stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal inflammation. For this reason, bismuth subcitrate is recommended as part of multiple therapy (such as triple or quadruple therapy) to eliminate this bacterium. - **Reducing symptoms of indigestion and digestive problems**: This drug can be effective in reducing symptoms such as heartburn, digestive pain, nausea and bloating and is useful for people who suffer from chronic digestive problems. - **Protection of gastric mucosa**: Bismuth subcitrate acts as a protective factor by covering the stomach wall and preventing the direct contact of stomach acid with the mucosa and prevents damage caused by acid and digestive enzymes. - ** Treatment of gastritis (gastritis): ** Bismuth subcitrate can reduce the inflammation of the stomach mucosa and help improve the symptoms caused by gastritis. - **Improving bloating caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)**: This drug can help reduce bloating and discomfort caused by irritable bowel syndrome with its calming effects on the digestive system. Taking bismuth subcitrate, under the supervision of a doctor, can help **reduce gastrointestinal symptoms** and **accelerate the healing process of wounds**. This medicine protects the health of the stomach from further damage by creating a protective layer. What is bismuth subcitrate tablets for? Bismuth subcitrate tablet is a medicine that is used to treat gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer and infection caused by the bacteria *Helicobacter pylori*. By creating a protective layer on the stomach mucosa, this medicine helps to heal the wound and reduces the destructive effect of stomach acid. It also has antibacterial properties and is usually prescribed in combination with antibiotics to eradicate Helicobacter. Its consumption should be according to the doctor's prescription, because arbitrary or long-term consumption can cause complications such as kidney problems or changing the color of feces and tongue. Side effects of bismuth subcitrate Bismuth subcitrate is a drug that is widely used to treat peptic ulcers and stomach infections, but like other drugs, it can have certain side effects. These side effects are usually mild and disappear when the drug is stopped. 1. **Change in the color of the stool**: It may **make the stool dark or black in color**, which is a normal and harmless complication. 2. **Tongue color change**: Long-term use of this drug can temporarily cause **blackening of the surface of the tongue**. 3. **Nausea and Vomiting**: Some people may experience nausea or vomiting. 4. **Constipation or diarrhea**: Changes in **bowel habits including constipation or diarrhea** may also occur. 5. **Allergic reactions**: In rare cases, some people may experience allergic reactions such as itching, redness or swelling. If you notice any severe or unusual side effects, it is better to stop taking the medicine and consult your doctor. Following your doctor's instructions can help reduce the risk of side effects. How to take bismuth subcitrate tablets Bismuth subcitrate is usually used to treat stomach ulcers and Helicobacter pylori infection. Its usual dose is 120 mg, four times a day, preferably half an hour before meals and before bedtime. In the treatment of infection, this drug is prescribed together with antibiotics and omeprazole. During consumption, the tongue or feces may turn black, which is harmless. You should avoid consuming dairy products, iron and antacids at the same time. Consumption should be according to the doctor's prescription and long-term or arbitrary consumption should be avoided. Does bismuth subcitrate tablets cause constipation? **Yes, bismuth subcitrate tablets may cause constipation in some people**. This side effect is not common, but due to the drug's effects on the digestive system, some people may experience mild constipation. If constipation occurs or worsens, it is better to consult a doctor so that changes in your treatment plan can be made if needed. Contraindications of bismuth subcitrate ⛔️ The use of bismuth subcitrate requires special precautions. Your doctor should monitor your progress during the course of treatment with regular visits to detect any possible complications or problems. If you have used disulfiram in the past two weeks or are currently using methoxyflurane, you should not take this medicine. Also, avoid alcoholic beverages while taking this medicine and for at least three days after the last dose. Bismuth subcitrate may affect the effectiveness of birth control pills. Therefore, you should use alternative or additional methods of contraception, such as condoms or contraceptive foams, when using this medicine. If you have any concerns or questions about this, be sure to consult your doctor. In addition, the use of this drug may cause a temporary change in the color of the tongue to black or dark, as well as a change in the color of the stool to black. These are harmless and will return to normal after the drug is stopped. Avoid taking milk or dairy products with this medicine. Also, contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as neck stiffness, drowsiness, fever, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, or eye sensitivity to light. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition called aseptic meningitis syndrome (AMS). Also, tell your doctor right away if you experience tingling, numbness, or pain in your hands, arms, or legs, as these can be signs of peripheral neuropathy. 🔴 Severe skin complications such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis may occur due to the use of this drug. If you notice symptoms such as skin redness, sores, or blisters, you should see a doctor immediately. Also, tell your doctor if you are taking this medication before having any tests or x-rays, as the results of the tests may be affected. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen after a few days, be sure to consult your doctor and avoid taking any other medication without your doctor's approval. What drugs does bismuth subcitrate interact with? Bismuth citrate may interact with some medications and change how they work or cause unwanted side effects. For this reason, before taking this medicine, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the medicines you are taking. This knowledge will help your specialist adjust the appropriate dosage and minimize potential risks. In some cases, your doctor may advise you to avoid taking certain medications at the same time or make changes to your medication schedule. Drugs that may interact with bismuth citrate include iloperidone, imipramine, isotretinoin, itraconazole, and ketoconazole. These drugs can affect the body's metabolism or increase the risk of side effects. In addition, drugs such as lapatinib, leuprolide, levofloxacin, levonorgestrel, and lithium may also interact with bismuth citrate, requiring careful management of their use. Other drugs that should be carefully considered when taking bismuth citrate include lofexidine, lumefantrine, Mackimorelin, magnesium sulfate, mebendazole, mefloquine, mestranol, and ethanol. The simultaneous use of these drugs with bismuth citrate can lead to serious problems or reduce the therapeutic effect. Therefore, always report all the medications you are taking to your doctor before starting bismuth citrate to manage potential risks. Bismuth subcitrate can interact with some medications and affect their effectiveness. Among the drugs that may interact with bismuth subcitrate are: - **Antacids**: simultaneous use of bismuth subcitrate with antacid drugs (such as calcium carbonate) can reduce the protective effect of bismuth; Therefore, it is recommended to observe at least one hour between their consumption. - **Tetracycline antibiotics**: Bismuth subcitrate can reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics and reduce their effectiveness. - **Blood-thinning drugs (such as warfarin)**: simultaneous use of these drugs with bismuth subcitrate may **increase the risk of bleeding**. - **Iron supplements**: Bismuth subcitrate can **reduce iron absorption** and may reduce the **effect of iron supplements**. If you take any of these drugs or supplements, be sure to consult your doctor to determine possible interactions and the appropriate timing of taking the drugs. Taking bismuth subcitrate tablets during pregnancy and breastfeeding It is recommended to use Bismuth subcitrate tablets during pregnancy and breastfeeding with caution and **only under** doctor's advice. There is not enough information about the effect of this drug on the fetus or newborn, and its use may carry risks. **During pregnancy, the doctor usually prescribes this drug only when its benefits outweigh possible risks.** Also, during breastfeeding, some of the drug's ingredients may be transferred to breast milk, so it is necessary to consult the doctor and pay attention to his recommendations. Pharmaceutical forms of bismuth subcitrate Bismuth subcitrate is mostly consumed as **120 mg oral tablet** and this is its most common pharmaceutical form. Also, in some cases, it is prescribed as **combined capsule** along with antibiotics to treat Helicobacter pylori* infection. In some countries, there is also an oral suspension (liquid), which is usually used for children or people who have difficulty swallowing. However, most patients use the same pill. The dosage amount of bismuth subcitrate The dosage of bismuth subcitrate varies depending on the type of disease and the patient's condition and should be determined according to the doctor's advice. For the treatment of stomach ulcers and Helicobacter pylori infection, a dose of 120 to 525 mg is usually prescribed 2 to 4 times a day (before meals and at bedtime). Also, to reduce the symptoms of indigestion, the dose may be lower and the number of times of use may be limited. It is recommended to take the medicine regularly and according to the doctor's prescription and avoid **arbitrarily changing the dose.** The best time to take bismuth subcitrate tablets The best time to take bismuth subcitrate tablets is usually **half an hour before meals and before bed**. This timing helps the drug to effectively create a protective layer on the stomach wall and maximize its protective effect on the digestive system. It is recommended to take this medicine with a glass of water and avoid taking it at the same time with dairy products or antacids, because these substances can reduce the absorption of the medicine. Bismuth subcitrate consumption in the elderly The use of bismuth subcitrate in the elderly should be done carefully and under the supervision of a doctor, because the elderly may be more sensitive to the side effects of the medication, **such as constipation or digestive problems**. The doctor may recommend a lower dose for the elderly and **determine a more accurate schedule for taking the drug** to avoid possible side effects. Also, it is important to pay attention to drug interactions, because the elderly usually take other drugs as well. In case of any complications or discomfort, it is better to consult your doctor. Summary In summary, it can be said that bismuth subcitrate tablets are **effective in treating digestive problems, especially stomach ulcers and infection caused by the bacteria *Helicobacter pylori*. By creating a protective layer on the stomach wall, this medicine prevents damages caused by stomach acid and helps to heal wounds with its antibacterial property. How to take bismuth subcitrate is usually recommended half an hour before meals and before bedtime, and it is important to pay attention to the appropriate dosage and timing of use. Side effects of this drug may include constipation, discoloration of the tongue and stool, and it is best for the elderly to use it carefully and under the supervision of a doctor. Following the doctor's order and avoiding drug interactions can increase the effectiveness of this drug and improve the health of the digestive system.