We all know how to tell if the milk is too old: Just give it the ‘ole sniff test and toss it out if it smells a bit off. But what about our medications? How do we know when they’ve lost potency or effectiveness when they’ve gone bad?
The Food and Drug Administration recommends that consumers always read and follow the expiration date on medical products. Once the expiration date has passed, there is no guarantee that your medicine will be safe or effective. If your medicine has expired, its chemical composition may have changed, according to the FDA. This can make your medicine weaker and unlikely to provide the treatment you need.
What is Pepto Bismol?
Pepto Bismol is a common over-the-counter (OTC) drug that may help control occasional symptoms of simple digestive issues, such as indigestion, heartburn, and diarrhea.
Pepto Bismol is an antacid. It is available in a variety of forms, including capsules and liquids, and comes in a range of strengths. Some people may experience specific side effects, such as very dark or black stool, after taking Pepto Bismol. However, these side effects are generally temporary and harmless.
The drug may also interact with other medications, such as anticoagulants, or blood thinners. A person should only use Pepto Bismol or similar products for a short period to treat occasional symptoms. Anyone dealing with chronic digestive symptoms should speak with their doctor.
How it works
Pepto-Bismol is thought to treat diarrhea by:
- increasing the amount of fluid your intestines absorb
- reducing inflammation and overactivity of your intestines
- preventing your body’s release of a chemical called prostaglandin that causes inflammation
- blocking toxins produced by bacteria such as Escherichia coli
- killing other bacteria that cause diarrhea
The active ingredient, bismuth subsalicylate, also has antacid properties that can help decrease heartburn, upset stomach, and nausea.
How do you know if Pepto Bismol is bad?
There are several ways to know whether your Pepto Bismol has gone bad, they include:
Expiry date: If the Pepto Bismol in your possession has passed the expiry date, it means it has likely gone bad. It may still look ok but the chemical composition might have changed. The expiration date is the final day that the manufacturer guarantees the full potency and safety of a medication
Change in consistency: When you notice that the consistency of your Pepto Bismol is not the same as it used to be, then it has likely gone bad. Most times this is due to how we store the medication. Exposure to light, humidity, and extreme temperatures can break down both prescription and over-the-counter drugs, making them less effective and – in rare cases – even toxic.
Change in color: Pepto Bismol is known for its bright pink color, it’s sometimes called pink bismuth or “the pink stuff.” A number of generic versions of this medication are also available. If you suddenly notice that the color of your Pepto Bismol has changed, then it has likely gone bad.
Taste: Pepto Bismol has a “minty” taste, the cherry flavor is nice because the original had a sort of chalky taste. A deviation from the normal taste of this medication is a sign that something has gone wrong.
Is it safe to take expired Pepto Bismol?
No, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends never taking drugs beyond their expiration date as it is risky with many unknown variables. For example, how your drug is stored before you receive it, chemical makeup, and original manufacturing date can all affect the potency of a drug.
Drugs that exist in solution or as a reconstituted suspension, and that require refrigeration like Pepto Bismol, may not have the required potency if used when outdated. Loss of potency can be a major health concern.
Some people feel refrigerating makes the dose of Pepto Bismol more pleasing to take, and that’s OK. However, you shouldn’t freeze the product. For best results, the product should not be exposed to temperatures above 104 F (40 C) or below freezing 32 F (0 C).
How to dispose of unused medicines
Look for drug destruction and take-back day events in your community for opportunities to drop off and dispose of expired drugs safely. Flushing Pepto Bismol or other medications down the drain or toilet is not advised, as many of the chemicals in pharmaceutical products are not removed during wastewater treatment and can be harmful to sensitive aquatic life. If you do throw your drugs in the trash, you can mix drugs with coffee grinds or dirty cat litter to prevent people from taking the drugs, accidentally or on purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happens if you take expired Pepto Bismol?
A: Expired Pepto Bismol may not work as well as unexpired medication and could potentially cause more side effects. It is best to dispose of expired medication properly and obtain a new prescription from a healthcare provider.
Q: How long does Pepto Bismol last before it expires?
A: The expiration date of Pepto Bismol can vary depending on the manufacturer and the formulation. It is important to check the medication label for the expiration date and to store the medication properly to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
Q: Can you take expired Pepto Bismol?
A: It is not recommended to take expired Pepto Bismol. The medication may not work as well, or it may cause more side effects. It is best to dispose of expired medication and obtain a new prescription from a healthcare provider.
Q: How do you dispose of expired Pepto Bismol?
A: It is recommended to dispose of expired Pepto Bismol properly by taking it to a drug take-back program or by following the instructions on the medication label. Do not flush the medication down the toilet or throw it in the trash.
Q: Can expired Pepto Bismol be harmful?
A: Expired Pepto Bismol may not be as effective and safe as unexpired medication. It is possible that the expired medication may cause more side effects or not work as well. It is recommended to dispose of expired medication properly and obtain a new prescription from a healthcare provider.
Q: What are the side effects of taking expired Pepto Bismol?
A: The side effects of taking expired Pepto Bismol may be similar to those of taking unexpired medication, but they may be more severe or prolonged. Common side effects of Pepto Bismol include constipation, dark stools, and black tongue.
Q: How do you store Pepto Bismol properly?
A: Pepto Bismol should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets. It is important to follow the storage instructions on the medication label to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
Q: Can you take Pepto Bismol with other medications?
A: It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Pepto Bismol with other medications. Pepto Bismol can interact with certain medications and may not be safe for everyone to take.
Q: Can you drink alcohol while taking Pepto Bismol?
A: It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Pepto Bismol. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and stomach upset.
Q: Can you take Pepto Bismol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding?
A: It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Pepto Bismol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pepto Bismol may not be safe for everyone to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Q: How long does Pepto Bismol take to work?
A: Pepto Bismol typically begins to work within 30 minutes to an hour after taking it. The duration of its effect can vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the individual’s response to the medication.
