What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-Cockayne syndrome
-History of blood diseases, such as sickle cell anemia, anemia, leukemia
-Frequently drink alcohol
-Irregular heartbeat or rhythm
-Kidney disease
-Liver disease
-Low blood counts
-Seizures
-Tingling of the fingers or toes, or other nerve disorder
-An unusual or allergic reaction to bismuth subcitrate potassium, metronidazole, tetracycline, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-Breastfeeding
What may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
-Acitretin
-Alcohol or any product that contains alcohol
-Cisapride
-Disulfiram
-Dronedarone
-Pimozide
-Thioridazine
This medication may also interact with the following:
-Antacids, vitamins, or other products that contain aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, or zinc
-Busulfan
-Certain medications that treat or prevent blood clots, such as warfarin
-Cimetidine
-Estrogen or progestin hormones
-Lithium
-Other medications that cause heart rhythm changes
-Phenobarbital
-Phenytoin
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your care team if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.
This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.
Estrogen and progestin hormones may not work as well while you are taking this medication. Contraception is recommended while taking this medication. Your care team can help you find the option that works for you.
Some products may contain alcohol. Ask your care team if this medication contains alcohol. Be sure to tell all care teams you are taking this medication. Certain medications, such as metronidazole and disulfiram, can cause an unpleasant reaction when taken with alcohol. The reaction includes flushing, headache, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and increased thirst. The reaction can last from 30 minutes to several hours.
What are the most serious risks of this medication?
This medicine was tested in animals. A risk for cancer was found in some animals but not in others. It is not clear if people have an increased risk for cancer with this medicine. This medicine will only be used when it is clearly needed for your condition.