Is Bismuth Subsalicylate safe while breastfeeding?
Here is what LactMed, the Drugs and Lactation Database published by the U.S. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), reports about Bismuth Subsalicylate. The text below is quoted from that source — it is not our own verdict.
Summary of use during breastfeeding
Because of the possibility of absorption of salicylate from the breastmilk by the infant, alternate therapies are preferred.[1]
Effects on the breastfed infant
One case report of metabolic acidosis was caused by salicylate in a 16-day old breastfed infant whose mother was taking aspirin 650 mg every 4 hours for arthritis.[3] However, there was no measurement of salicylate in maternal serum or milk and it is unclear whether the infant had received any salicylate directly.
Effects on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Levels in milk
Maternal Levels. No published information was found on the use of bismuth subsalicylate during breastfeeding. Infant salicylate intake is estimated to be less than 1% of the maternal dose when both drug and metabolite are considered.[2]
Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Alternatives LactMed lists
Bismuth Subsalicylate in pregnancy
LactMed covers breastfeeding only. For what the NHS and the US prescribing label say about pregnancy, see:
Source: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), via NCBI Bookshelf, record “Bismuth Subsalicylate” (LM449). LactMed on NCBI Bookshelf. LactMed is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Educational summary of an authoritative source — not medical advice. Never start, stop, or change a medicine while breastfeeding without confirming with your doctor.