Pepto Bismol and Alcohol?

No, this is not the newest $30 cocktail combination at your local hipster bar (that we know of). That being said, it is a combination you will occasionally see drunk together for various reasons. Why do people drink pepto bismol and alcohol together? Is it safe? Does it work?

Some people may believe that drinking the familiar hot pink colored Pepto Bismol before or after drinking alcohol can help alleviate symptoms of alcohol-induced indigestion or heartburn. Allowing one to drink excessively without the regular heartburn often associated with taking down shots on a Friday night. In effect, some purport it cancels out.

But where is this heartburn coming from?

Why Does Alcohol Cause Heartburn?

Alcohol can cause heartburn for several reasons. First, alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach. When the LES relaxes, stomach acid can more easily flow back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn.

Second, alcohol stimulates the production of stomach acid, which can also contribute to heartburn.

Additionally, drinking alcohol can lead to overeating and consuming large meals, increasing pressure on the LES and causing heartburn.

It is worth noting that different types of alcohol can have varying effects on heartburn. For example, some people find that certain types of alcohol, such as red wine, are more likely to cause heartburn than others, like white wine.

Alcohol’s effect on the stomach is not just limited to heartburn; it is also responsible for the following issues. 

1. Irritation of the stomach lining: Alcohol is a potent irritant to the stomach lining and can lead to inflammation, pain, and other digestive issues.
2. Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic that increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. This can make heartburn and other digestive symptoms worse.
3. Increased production of stomach acid: Alcohol stimulates the production of stomach acid, which can exacerbate heartburn and other digestive symptoms.
4. Reduced blood flow to the stomach: Alcohol can also cause blood vessels in the abdomen to constrict, reducing blood flow and contributing to digestive problems.

Given the havoc alcohol can wreak on the stomach, it is easy to see how many who overindulge deduced that Pepto could be the cure-all, particularly given that the popular over-the-counter medication is well-known for relieving all things gut-troubling. But how does the hot pink concoction work?

How Does Pepto Bismol Work?

Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter medication used to treat symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhea. It works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach and coating the stomach and intestine to relieve discomfort and protect against irritation caused by digestive juices.

The active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is bismuth subsalicylate, which has both antacid and anti-inflammatory properties. The antacid properties neutralize excess stomach acid to relieve heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach, while the anti-inflammatory properties soothe the stomach and intestine to alleviate discomfort.

It is important to note that while Pepto-Bismol can effectively relieve digestive symptoms, it should not be used as a long-term solution for digestive problems. If you are experiencing persistent or severe digestive symptoms, it is best to speak with a doctor to determine the underlying cause and the best treatment course.

Given its reputation and focus, it is no surprise that alcohol and pepto bismol have become ubiquitous, but is the combination safe?

Is It Safe To Drink Alcohol and Pepto Bismol Together?

It is important to note that it is always best to talk to a healthcare professional before combining over-the-counter medications, including Pepto Bismol, with alcohol or other substances.

While several opinions are related to this topic, It is generally not considered safe to drink Pepto Bismol and alcohol together. Both alcohol and Pepto Bismol can irritate your stomach lining and lead to an upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, Pepto Bismol contains salicylates, similar to aspirin; mixing it with alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding and other side effects.

If you have consumed alcohol and are experiencing symptoms like indigestion or an upset stomach, it is best to let your body recover naturally rather than taking Pepto Bismol or any other medication.

Alternative Ways to Avoid Heartburn While Drinking

If you experience heartburn while drinking alcohol, there are several strategies you can try to reduce your symptoms:

1. Choose drinks that are less likely to trigger heartburn. Wine and clear liquors like vodka and gin are less acidic than drinks like whiskey or brandy and may cause less heartburn.
2. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Eating a meal before drinking can help to reduce the chance of heartburn.
3. Drink slowly and avoid overindulging. Sipping drinks slowly and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can reduce the likelihood of heartburn.
4. Stay upright after drinking. Lying down after drinking can cause acid from your stomach to move up into your esophagus, leading to heartburn. Try to avoid lying down for at least a few hours after drinking.
5. Drink water alongside alcohol. Drinking water along with alcohol can help to flush out any acid that may have built up in your stomach, reducing the risk of heartburn.
6. Avoid spicy and fatty foods. Foods that are high in fat or spices can trigger heartburn. Try to avoid these foods before and during drinking.
7. Chew gum. Chewing gum can help stimulate saliva production, neutralizing stomach acid and relieving heartburn symptoms.

If heartburn is a common problem for you after drinking alcohol, it may be best to limit your alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether. Additionally, it would be best to talk to your doctor about any persistent symptoms, as they could indicate a more serious underlying health issue.