Scientists peek inside your gut to see what Pepto-Bismol really does

This study aimed to understand how bismuth subsalicylate (BSS), the active ingredient in medicines like Pepto-Bismol, affects the community of bacteria living in a healthy person's gut. Thirty-four healthy adults took BSS for two days, and researchers collected stool samples before and for a month after to analyze changes in the bacteria and other substances. The goal was to gather basic knowledge about how this common over-the-counter medicine interacts with our body's natural microbiome.