The Efficacy of Bismuth Subsalicylate in Relieving Gastro-Intestinal Discomfort following Excessive Alcohol and Food Intake

Abstract

The safety and efficacy of bismuth subsalicylate in relieving the symptoms of gastro-intestinal distress due to excess ingestion of food and drink were evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study. Of the 132 healthy adult volunteers who were encouraged to overindulge in food and drink during a simulated cocktail/dinner party, 91 (68.9%) experienced symptoms of gastric distress and of these 43 were randomly assigned to receive bismuth subsalicylate and 48 placebo. Subjects took the formulation as needed every 30–60 min, with a maximum of eight doses during the 24-h study period. Subjects who received bismuth subsalicylate had significantly superior relief (P < 0.01) of the individual symptoms of nausea, sense of fullness, heartburn, eructation, stomach pain and flatulence, as well as superior overall relief (P < 0.02). The time between the first doses of medication and the attainment of good or excellent relief was also significantly shorter (P < 0.01) in the bismuth subsalicylate-treated subjects for the individual symptoms of nausea, sense of fullness, heartburn and eructation. There were no adverse reactions.