For an otherwise healthy adult with mild upset stomach and watery diarrhea, the best first treatment is oral rehydration solution (ORS), such as Pedialyte or WHO-ORS. Sip frequently to replace water and salts.

For short-term symptom relief, choose one:

Do not use antibiotics unless prescribed. Most short episodes settle on their own, and supportive care with rehydration is the priority, as noted in NIDDK diarrhea guidance.

Get urgent medical care if there is severe or localized abdominal pain, a rigid/swollen abdomen, blood/black stool, high fever, repeated vomiting, fainting, very little urine, confusion, or signs of dehydration. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist beyond 48 hours, or sooner for a child, older adult, pregnancy, or significant medical condition.

Bismuth subsalicylate tablets, for example Pepto-Bismol, are used for short-term relief of:

It works by reducing fluid secretion in the bowel and has mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.

Important: Do not take it if you have bloody diarrhea, fever, aspirin/salicylate allergy, a stomach ulcer or bleeding disorder, or if you take blood thinners. Avoid it in children and teenagers with flu or chickenpox symptoms because of the rare risk of Reye syndrome. It can harmlessly make the tongue or stools look black.

For adults, follow the exact tablet-strength dosing directions on your pack. Keep drinking ORS or electrolyte fluids, since replacing fluids is the main treatment for diarrhea. The official drug label lists it as an upset-stomach reliever and antidiarrheal.

The common brand name is Pepto-Bismol.

Ask for bismuth subsalicylate 262 mg chewable tablets. Brand availability differs by country, so a pharmacist can provide the local equivalent.