Colloidal Bismuth Subcitrate

Dosage Forms Available

• Colloidal Bismuth Subcitrate is available for oral use in the form of tablets.

• The tablets are designed to be swallowed whole with water without chewing or crushing.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for use in adults and children above the age of 12 years.

Contraindications

• It is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Colloidal Bismuth Subcitrate may interact with antacids (like magnesium hydroxide and aluminium hydroxide), antibiotics (such as gentamicin and doxycycline), and diuretics (like furosemide). These interactions can affect absorption and treatment efficacy.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Colloidal Bismuth Subcitrate may result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark stools, confusion, seizures, and encephalopathy. Immediate medical attention is crucial in managing these symptoms effectively.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage constipation, consider adjusting the timing of the medication and increasing your intake of water.

• If experiencing black or dark stools, do not be alarmed as this is a common reaction due to the presence of bismuth sulfide.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Colloidal Bismuth Subcitrate may cause dizziness or headaches which could affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid engaging in such activities if you experience these side effects.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The safety of Colloidal Bismuth Subcitrate during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established. It is advisable to use this medicine during these periods only if prescribed by a doctor.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with existing liver problems should exercise caution when taking Colloidal Bismuth Subcitrate.

• Elderly patients should use this medication with caution due to the increased risk of side effects at higher ages.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a well-balanced diet rich in fibre to help manage symptoms of indigestion and promote gastric health.

• Avoid foods that irritate the stomach such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages which can aggravate ulcer symptoms.

• Engage in moderate exercise like walking which can improve digestion and reduce stress levels; however, avoid strenuous activities immediately after meals.

• Ensure adequate fluid intake to aid in digestion and prevent constipation, a common side effect.

• Managing stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can also help alleviate symptoms associated with peptic ulcers.