Gastrovol (Bismuth Subsalicylate) is an over-the-counter medication to relieve temporary stomach and gastrointestinal discomforts. The drug relieves stomach upset, heartburn, indigestion, and nausea. Gastrovol is also used to help firm stool, reduce the number of bowel movements, and relieve diarrhea and cramps associated with diarrhea. The active ingredient in Gastrovol is Bismuth subsalicylate. Bismuth subsalicylate belongs to a class of drugs called antidiarrheals. It works by decreasing the flow of fluids and electrolytes into the bowel. It also reduces inflammation within the intestine and may kill the organisms that can cause diarrhea.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Gastrovol from Canada manufactured by Church & Dwight Canada in the strength of 252 mg gel capsules. The generic Bismuth subsalicylate is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Gastrovol. The most common side effects of Gastrovol may include the following:
• Constipation;
• Dark colored stools
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Bloody stools;
• Ringing in your ears;
• Severe diarrhea lasting longer than two days;
• Unusual thirst
These are not all of Gastrovol's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Gastrovol if you are allergic to Bismuth subsalicylate or any ingredient in Gastrovol. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have a fever;
• Have black or bloody stools;
• Have bleeding problems;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have mucus in your stool;
• Have phenylketonuria;
• Have stomach ulcer
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Gastrovol and other medicines, like aspirin, warfarin, doxycycline, diabetes medicine, arthritis medicine, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Gastrovol may harm your unborn baby and cause problems with normal delivery. Avoid using this drug in pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Bismuth subsalicylate passes into breast milk or if it may affect a nursing infant. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Gastrovol is a capsule. Swallow the capsules whole with water. Do not crush or chew. Inform your doctor if you still have diarrhea two days after using the medicine. Avoid using this drug in children or teenagers with flu symptoms or chickenpox. It can cause a fatal condition called Reye’s syndrome. Drink plenty of water or other beverages to replace the fluids you may have lost while having diarrhea. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.