What is bismuth subgallate used for?

Bismuth subgallate is a medication used to deodorize flatulence and stools as well as hemostasis in soft tissue surgery. Bismuth subgallate is a yellow colored substance that presents as an odorless powder that undergoes discoloration when exposed to sunlight.

What is the ductility of bismuth?

Bismuth wire (extruded) is used for thermocouple applications (has highest negativity known), which is drawn in glass tubes of diameters of 0.0062 to 0.0991cm (0.003 to 0.039in), and is ductile enough to be wound tightly. Is added in small amounts as a machining aid, especially for steel, as a substitute for lead.

Is bismuth subgallate over-the-counter?

Possessing protective effects on the gastric mucosa, strong astringent effects, and not as yet elucidated antimicrobial and hemostatic actions, bismuth subgallate is most commonly available as an over-the-counter internal deodorant where it is often employed as the primary active ingredient.

How does bismuth Subgallate work?

It acts as a flatulence and stool deodorizer and it’s mechanism of action is not known like most drugs. It is thought that bismuth subgallate works by acting on odor producing bacteria in the intestine so that expelled gas and stool are not as smelly.

How is bismuth used in medicine?

Bismuth subsalicylate is in a class of medications called antidiarrheal agents. It works by decreasing the flow of fluids and electrolytes into the bowel, reduces inflammation within the intestine, and may kill the organisms that can cause diarrhea.

What are the side effects of bismuth subsalicylate?

Side effects of bismuth subsalicylate include:

• abdominal pain.
• anal discomfort.
• anxiety.
• black or ‘hairy’ tongue.
• clay-colored or gray-black stools.
• cold symptoms (stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat)
• confusion.
• constipation (may be chronic)

Is bismuth subsalicylate safe to take?

Bismuth subsalicylate is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is safe and effective when used according to the Drug Facts label. You may use the product as directed until diarrhea stops, but not for more than two days.

How do humans use bismuth?

Bismuth finds its main uses in pharmaceuticals, atomic fire alarms and sprinkler systems, solders and other alloys and pigments for cosmetics, glass and ceramics. It is also used as a catalyst in rubber production.

Is it safe to take bismuth daily?

Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children: Bismuth subgallate and bismuth subsalicylate are LIKELY SAFE when taken by mouth short-term and as directed. Taking 200-400 mg of bismuth subgallate by mouth up to four times daily is approved by the US FDA as a deodorant drug for children at least 12 years-old.