Introduction
Main Chemicals, Compounds, Components
The main ingredients of Pepto Bismol are Bismuth and Benzoic acid.
Bismuth:
Benzoic acid
Chemistry's Role
It is not know exactly how the pepto bismol reacts inside the stomach. Pepto bismol“Coats” the irritated tissues to calm down the explosive fluids inside the stomach. It also combines to the toxins produced by E.coli preventing forms of travelers diarrhea. Another reaction inside the stomach that take place is called the oligodynamic effect. The oligodynamic effect is when small amount of a heavy metal, in this case bismuth, is used to kill some of the harmful microbes inside the stomach. It reduces the secretion inside the digestive tract calming the stomach. One ingredient Salicylic acid is known to reduce the irritation and inflammation inside the stomach and intestines. It is due to the combination of these reactions that help the symptoms disappear.
Background Research
Pepto was first made in the early 20th century. It was created by a doctor inside of his own home looking for a cure to the widespread disease of cholera. After his medicine became a hit and he could not manufacture enough inside his home he brought his recipe to a pharmacal company in New York. The name was then changed to its currents name in 1919 Pepto Bismol to help appeal to the adult population more. Although the main purpose is no longer needed it now is used for other stomach problems such as indigestion, diarrhea, nausea, and heartburn.
Resources
http://www.pepto-bismol.com/en-us/about/history
this website is directly from the company and tells very general background information of the product
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bismuth_subsalicylate
this website has tons of information of almost everything about pepto bismol
http://chealth.canoe.com/drug_info_details.asp?brand_name_id=5164
more information on the ingredients and how its pepto bismol works and the ingredients of the original liquid
http://humantouchofchemistry.com/how-antacids-work.htm
this website has information on antacids and how they work with the stomach to combat nausea and other stomach ailments.
http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/bismuth_subsalicylate#section=Top
this website has tons of information on BISMUTH SUBSALICYLATE including structure and many other chemical properties
http://www.pepto-bismol.com/en-us/faq/black-stool-black-tongue
also directly form the company explaining why it may turn stools and tongue black and why that is harmless
https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a607040.html
This website contains information on why this medication is used and contains warning for usage
About the Author
Andy Maehl is a junior at senior high. He enjoys not only watching but playing sports. He plans to attend Montana State but is undecided on what to study. He is a member of the varsity football team at Billings Senior High School that placed second in state during the 2015 season.