Pink Prescribing: Bismuth Subsalicylate; History, Actions, Risks, and Future Use.

Recently, there seems to be more creative advertising regarding bismuth subsalicylate (BSS) for lots of gastrointestinal issues. I have found during medication reconciliation that some patients overuse and believe use of BSS products is without risks. From an advertising perspective, there seem to be many happy persons consuming BSS with no mention of restrictions or safety recommendations. What are the risks associated with its use? How effective is BSS? What about drug interactions?