The Pepto-Bismol Dosage Chart is an essential tool for every American household. Known as ‘the pink stuff,’ this versatile OTC medication is the gold standard for treating the ‘five symptoms’: nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
While highly effective, Pepto-Bismol contains Bismuth Subsalicylate (a derivative of aspirin). Because of this, dosage must be precise to avoid toxicity. Critical Safety Note: Never give adult Pepto-Bismol to children or teenagers recovering from viral infections like the flu or chickenpox. Doing so increases the risk of Reye’s Syndrome, a rare but life-threatening condition. Always ensure you are using the correct formulation for your age group.
Pepto-Bismol Dosage Chart for Adults (12+ Years)
To ensure safety, follow the Pepto-Bismol Dosage Chart below. Taking more than the recommended amount can lead to a harmless but startling temporary darkening of the tongue or stool.
| Product Form | Strength | Adult Dosage (12+) | Max 24h Dose |
| Original Liquid | 262 mg / 15 mL | 30 mL (every 30-60 min) | 240 mL |
| Ultra Liquid | 525 mg / 15 mL | 15 mL (every 60 min) | 120 mL |
| Caplets | 262 mg / caplet | 2 Caplets (every 30-60 min) | 16 Caplets |
| Chewables | 262 mg / tablet | 2 Tablets (every 30-60 min) | 16 Tablets |
Pepto Bismol Liquid for Nausea, Heartburn, Indigestion, Upset Stomach and Diarrhea Relief, Cherry
Pepto Bismol Chewable Tablets, Upset Stomach Relief, Nausea Relief, Heartburn Relief, Indigestion Relief, Anti Diarrhea Medication for Adults – 5 Symptom Relief
Pepto Bismol Caplets, Upset Stomach Relief, Nausea Relief, Heartburn Relief, Indigestion Relief, Anti Diarrhea Medication for Adults – 5 Symptom Relief
Children’s Pepto-Bismol Dosage Chart (Ages 2-11)
For children under 12, pharmacists recommend ‘Children’s Pepto.’ Unlike the adult version, these are chewable antacids containing Calcium Carbonate, which is safe and does not carry the risk of Reye’s Syndrome.
| Age / Weight | Dosage (Chewable) | Frequency |
| 2-5 yrs (24-47 lbs) | 1 Tablet | As needed (Max 3/day) |
| 6-11 yrs (48-95 lbs) | 2 Tablets | As needed (Max 3/day) |
Children’s Pepto Chewable Tablets
The “Black Tongue” Scare: > “Don’t panic! Bismuth can react with trace amounts of sulfur in your saliva and digestive tract, turning your tongue or stool black. This is temporary, harmless, and will disappear once you stop the medication.”
Traveler’s Diarrhea Prevention: > “In my practice, I often recommend Pepto-Bismol as a preventive measure for ‘Montezuma’s Revenge.’ Studies show that taking two tablets or 30 mL four times a day can significantly reduce the risk of diarrhea while traveling in high-risk areas.”
About the Author: Dr. Marco Rollo, PharmD
“Dr. Marco Rollo is a licensed pharmacist with a passion for clinical safety and integrative medicine. With years of experience behind the counter, he created these dosage charts to provide families with clear, evidence-based guidance on how to use common medications safely and effectively.”