This guide walks you through exactly what Pepto-Bismol is, why it’s not typically recommended while breastfeeding, what to do if you took Pepto Bismol accidentally, and what safer options you can use instead.
You’re juggling feedings, diaper changes, and about two hours of sleep—so it’s totally understandable if you grabbed a bottle of Pepto-Bismol without thinking twice.
What Is Pepto Bismol And Why It’s Usually A “No”
Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter medicine for upset stomach, heartburn, and diarrhea. Its main ingredient is bismuth subsalicylate, which works by coating your stomach lining to calm things down. The catch? That “salicylate” part is related to aspirin—and that matters when you’re breastfeeding.
Salicylates can pass into breast milk in small amounts. There’s a rare but serious condition called Reye’s syndrome that’s been linked to aspirin use in children, which is why experts take a cautious stance. There haven’t been any reported cases tied directly to Pepto through breast milk, but because of the theoretical risk, it’s usually marked as “not recommended” while nursing.
What The Research Actually Says
Let’s break it down:
- The LactMed database (a gold-standard resource) notes that no human studies show definite harm, but still suggests avoiding it while breastfeeding due to salicylate exposure
- Experts estimate that a breastfed baby would get less than 1% of the salicylate dose the mom takes
- Despite the low transfer, health authorities like the CDC, NHS, and Poison Control recommend safer alternatives during breastfeeding.
So it’s not that one dose is dangerous. It’s that the long-term risk isn’t well understood—and when it comes to your baby, most pros would rather play it safe.
Accidentally Took Pepto Bismol While Breastfeeding? Here’s What To Do
First off—don’t panic. Lots of moms have been in your shoes. One accidental Pepto Bismol dose while breastfeeding is very unlikely to hurt your baby.
Steps To Take:
- Note the timing: When did you take it? When did you last nurse? The longer the time gap, the lower the exposure.
- Call your provider: Let your pediatrician or a lactation consultant know what happened. Give them your baby’s age, health, and feeding schedule so they can assess your specific situation.
- Watch for symptoms: It’s rare, but be alert for things like vomiting, unusual sleepiness, or irritability in your baby .
- Keep breastfeeding: In most cases, you don’t need to pause or “pump and dump.” Continuing to nurse is still the best thing for your baby unless your doctor says otherwise.
What You Can Use Instead
If you’re dealing with digestive drama, you have safer options while breastfeeding:
- For heartburn or indigestion: TUMS, Maalox, Gaviscon, and Mylanta are usually considered safe.
- For diarrhea: Imodium (loperamide) is generally okay for nursing moms, but check with your doctor if you’re unsure.
- For nausea: Vitamin B6 and Unisom (doxylamine) under medical supervision may help.
- Natural remedies: Try ginger or peppermint tea.
Always read the label. If it says “salicylate,” skip it until you’re done breastfeeding.
Bottom Line
If you accidentally took Pepto Bismol while breastfeeding, try not to stress. One dose is highly unlikely to harm your baby. That said, it’s best to avoid taking it again while nursing and stick with safer alternatives.
You’ve got this! Happy breastfeeding!
References
- Bismuth Subsalicylate – Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) – NCBI (2024-09-15)
- Pepto-Bismol: Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Fertility – NHS (2022-08-03)
- Foodborne and Waterborne Illness and Breastfeeding – CDC (2025-09-23)
- Is Pepto Bismol Safe? – Poison Control (Undated)
