Compare
Zantac vs. Bismuth subsalicylate

Ranitidine is an H2 blocker that reduces the amount of acid the stomach produces. It's used to treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers. It was recalled in 2020 due to safety concerns about a chemical impurity, but it has since been reformulated and is now back on the market. Your dose depends on why you’re taking it, but it’s usually taken by mouth one to four times a day. Side effects include headache, dizziness, and feeling tired.

• Stomach ulcer
• Intestinal ulcer
• Heartburn (GERD)
• Erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) due to GERD
• Other high-acid conditions (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or mastocytosis)

• Headache
• Tiredness
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Stomach pain
• Nausea

• Risk of hiding symptoms of a more serious problem
• Medication interactions
• Allergic reactions

Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) is a salicylate antidiarrheal medication. It's used to ease diarrhea and symptoms of an upset stomach (e.g., gas, nausea) in adults and kids ages 12 years and older. This medication is taken by mouth, typically once every 30 minutes to an hour, as needed. Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) is found over the counter in several different formulations, such as chewable tablets and oral solutions. Side effects of this medication include nausea, changes in taste, dark-colored tongue, and black stool.

• Diarrhea
• Travelers' diarrhea
• Symptoms of upset stomach (e.g., heartburn, indigestion, nausea, gas, belching (burping), fullness)

• Nausea
• Bitter taste in mouth
• Diarrhea
• Dark-colored stools

• Reye's syndrome in children
• Salicylate toxicity
• Allergic reactions