Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate

About Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate

This belongs to the group of medicines known as chelates and complexes.

Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate is used to treat certain conditions caused by too much acid being produced in the stomach, such as stomach ulcers (gastric ulcers) and ulcers of the upper part of the intestine (duodenal ulcers).

Acid is produced naturally in the stomach to help digest food. Excessive amounts of acid can irritate the stomach lining, causing inflammation, ulcers and other conditions.

Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate works by protecting the lining of the stomach, relieving pain and allowing the area to repair itself.

Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate is available in tablet form.

Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate is also sometimes known as bismuth chelate. You may notice the use of either name on the packaging of your medicine

It is also sometimes known as: De-noltab. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate

Before taking any of this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney problems
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate

• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take each dose of tripotassium dicitratobismuthate with half a tumblerful of water.
• If you have been instructed to take tripotassium dicitratobismuthate twice a day: Take the first dose 30 minutes before breakfast and the second dose 30 minutes before your evening meal.
• If you have been instructed to take tripotassium dicitratobismuthate four times a day: Take the first dose 30 minutes before your breakfast, the second dose 30 minutes before lunch, the third dose 30 minutes before your evening meal and the fourth two hours after your evening meal.
• Try not to miss any doses. If you do forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember then continue as normal. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose and take the next dose on time.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of tripotassium dicitratobismuthate contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not stop taking tripotassium dicitratobismuthate without speaking to your doctor first.
• Do not smoke. Smoking increases the amount of acid produced by the stomach and will aggravate your condition.
• Do not drink milk on its own while you are being treated with this medicine. You may have small quantities in tea or coffee or on cereal if required.
• Do not take antacid indigestion remedies at the same time of day as this medicine. Take any indigestion remedies at least 30 minutes before or 30 minutes after a dose of tripotassium dicitratobismuthate.
• Try to avoid foods that may upset your stomach such as, alcohol, citrus fruits and juices, drinks containing caffeine, tomatoes or spicy food.
• Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate may darken your tongue or blacken your stools. This is completely harmless and will stop when your treatment is finished.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside tripotassium dicitratobismuthate.

Can Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate cause problems?

As well as their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Feeling or being sick.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Tripotassium dicitratobismuthate

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Either discard them safely and out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 31/03/2003