bistas tablet - Colloidal bismuth subcitrate (120mg) medicine

Bistas Tablet: Complete Guide To Uses, Dosage, And Safety

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🏭 Waterley Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 28, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established for peptic ulcer disease and H. pylori eradication; moderate for non-ulcer dyspepsia.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 28, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Confusion, muscle twitching, or seizures
  • Severe skin rash or blistering
  • Decreased urine output or swelling in legs
  • Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is bistas tablet used for?

This medicine contains colloidal bismuth subcitrate, which treats peptic ulcers and gastritis by forming a protective barrier over the stomach lining and fighting Helicobacter pylori bacteria. It is taken orally, usually four times a day with meals and at bedtime.

  • Generic Name: Colloidal bismuth subcitrate
  • Manufacturer: Waterley Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 bistas tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा कोलॉइडल बिस्मथ सबसिट्रेट से बनी है और पेट के अल्सर, गैस्ट्राइटिस और अपच के इलाज में उपयोग की जाती है। यह पेट की परत पर एक सुरक्षात्मक परत बनाकर अल्सर को ठीक होने में मदद करती है और हेलिकोबैक्टर पाइलोरी बैक्टीरिया को मारती है। यह दवा आमतौर पर दिन में चार बार भोजन के साथ और सोने से पहले ली जाती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में जीभ का काला पड़ना, मल का काला होना, मतली, कब्ज और दस्त शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हानिरहित होते हैं और दवा बंद करने पर ठीक हो जाते हैं। दुर्लभ मामलों में एलर्जी, सिरदर्द या चक्कर आ सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव जैसे सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई या दौरे पड़ना बहुत दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। खुराक या अवधि न बढ़ाएं। इसे भोजन के साथ पानी के साथ निगलें। एंटासिड या दूध के साथ न लें, क्योंकि इससे दवा का असर कम हो सकता है। शराब न पिएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। यदि आपको गंभीर पेट दर्द, उल्टी में खून, या एलर्जी के लक्षण दिखें तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 bistas tablet Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Peptic ulcer disease","description":"Helps heal gastric and duodenal ulcers by protecting the ulcer surface and eradicating Helicobacter pylori when used in combination therapy.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Gastritis","description":"Reduces inflammation of the stomach lining and relieves associated symptoms such as pain and burning.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Non-ulcer dyspepsia","description":"Provides relief from indigestion symptoms like upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, and early satiety.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Helicobacter pylori eradication","description":"Used as part of quadruple therapy regimens to eliminate H.
  • pylori infection and prevent ulcer recurrence.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Traveler's diarrhea","description":"Sometimes used off-label for symptomatic relief of acute diarrhea, though evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Halitosis","description":"Occasionally used to reduce bad breath associated with gastrointestinal conditions, but not a standard treatment.","evidence":"Insufficient"}]

Primary treatment for: Peptic ulcer disease

Also treats: Gastritis, Non-ulcer dyspepsia, Helicobacter pylori infection

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Colloidal bismuth subcitrate
Brand NameBistas Tablet
ManufacturerWaterley Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassGASTRO INTESTINAL
Action ClassGastrointestinal agent, mucosal protective
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with meals to reduce stomach upset and improve tolerability.
2
Avoid taking antacids, milk, or dairy products within 2 hours of this medicine, as they can reduce its effectiveness.
3
Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration, as prolonged high-dose use can lead to bismuth accumulation.
4
Inform your doctor if you are taking antibiotics like tetracycline or ciprofloxacin, as bismuth can reduce their absorption.
5
If you experience confusion, muscle twitching, or seizures, stop the medicine and seek immediate medical attention.
6
Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better, to ensure complete healing and prevent recurrence.
7
Avoid alcohol and NSAIDs during treatment to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Upper abdominal pain
This medicine is commonly prescribed for peptic ulcer and gastritis.
Likely Use
❌
Heartburn
This medicine is not a first-line treatment for simple heartburn.
Not Primary
✅
Nausea
May help with nausea associated with gastritis.
Likely Use
❌
Diarrhea
This medicine is not primarily used for diarrhea.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionColloidal bismuth subcitrate is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Only a small fraction of the administered dose is absorbed systemically, and absorption may increase in patients with impaired renal function.
DistributionThe absorbed bismuth is distributed mainly to the kidneys, liver, and other tissues. It can cross the placenta and is excreted in breast milk. The majority of the medicine remains in the gastrointestinal tract, where it exerts its local effects.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismBismuth is not metabolized in the body. The small amount absorbed is excreted unchanged.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of absorbed bismuth is approximately 5 to 11 days, but it may be prolonged in patients with renal impairment.
ExcretionBismuth is primarily excreted in the feces, with a small amount excreted in the urine. Renal excretion is the main route for the absorbed fraction.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of colloidal bismuth subcitrate is low, typically less than 1% in healthy individuals.
Onset of ActionThe protective effect on the stomach lining begins within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of bismuth are usually reached 1 to 2 hours after oral administration, but levels are very low due to poor absorption.
Duration of ActionThe protective effect lasts for several hours, requiring multiple daily dosing to maintain therapeutic benefit.

How It Works

This medicine works locally in the stomach and duodenum. Colloidal bismuth subcitrate forms a protective barrier over ulcerated mucosa, preventing further damage from acid and pepsin. It also binds to the ulcer base, stimulating mucus and bicarbonate secretion, and has direct antibacterial activity against Helicobacter pylori. Additionally, it inhibits the enzyme urease produced by H. pylori, which is essential for the bacterium's survival in the acidic environment.

Mechanism Steps

1
Protective barrier formation: Colloidal bismuth subcitrate precipitates in the acidic environment of the stomach and forms a protective layer over the ulcerated area, shielding it from acid and pepsin.
2
Mucus and bicarbonate stimulation: This medicine stimulates the secretion of mucus and bicarbonate by the gastric mucosa, enhancing the natural defense mechanisms of the stomach lining.
3
Antibacterial action: It directly inhibits the growth of Helicobacter pylori by disrupting its cell wall and inhibiting urease, an enzyme crucial for the bacterium's survival in acidic conditions.
4
Pepsin inhibition: This medicine reduces the activity of pepsin, a digestive enzyme that can worsen ulceration, thereby aiding in the healing process.

💡 How to Take bistas tablet

Strength: Colloidal bismuth subcitrate 120 mg immediate-release oral tablet.

1Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
2Take this medicine with meals or as directed by your doctor.
3Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless instructed.
4Avoid taking antacids or dairy products within 2 hours of this medicine.
5Follow the prescribed schedule consistently for best results.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 120 mg taken orally four times a day, or as directed by your doctor. For peptic ulcer disease, it is often taken with meals and at bedtime. The exact dose and duration depend on the condition being treated, your age, kidney function, and other medicines you are taking. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of bismuth, especially if they have reduced kidney function. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with mild to moderate renal impairment, no specific dose adjustment is usually required, but caution is advised. In severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min), this medicine is contraindicated due to risk of accumulation and toxicity. Consult your doctor for guidance.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is recommended for patients with hepatic impairment. However, use with caution and under medical supervision.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 480 mg (120 mg four times a day). Do not exceed this dose without medical advice.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With meals
Take with food
Reduces stomach upset and improves tolerability.
Milk and dairy
Avoid within 2 hours
May reduce absorption of bismuth.
Antacids
Avoid within 2 hours
May reduce effectiveness of bismuth.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of bistas tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Darkening of tongue (Common (up to 10%))
This is harmless and reversible. Continue the medicine as prescribed and maintain good oral hygiene.
Black stools (Common (up to 10%))
This is a harmless effect of bismuth. Do not be alarmed. It will resolve after stopping the medicine.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take the medicine with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Constipation (Common (5-10%))
Increase fluid and fiber intake. If constipation is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or lasts more than a few days, consult your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Bismuth encephalopathy (Rare (<0.1%))
Report symptoms such as confusion, muscle twitching, or seizures to your doctor immediately. This is more likely with high doses or kidney problems.
Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Stop the medicine and seek emergency care if you develop a painful rash, blistering, or peeling skin.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Kidney damage
Regular monitoring of kidney function is advised for long-term use. Report decreased urine output or swelling.
Neurotoxicity
Seek medical attention if you experience tremors, difficulty walking, or memory problems.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Tetracycline Major
Ciprofloxacin Major
Warfarin Major
Antacids Moderate
Milk Moderate
Aspirin Moderate
Ibuprofen Moderate
Alcohol Minor
Food Minor
Omeprazole Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Tetracycline antibiotics
  • Quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin)
  • Warfarin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Antacids
  • Milk and dairy products
  • Aspirin and other NSAIDs

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase stomach irritation and may worsen ulcer symptoms. Alcohol can also interfere with the healing process of peptic ulcers.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to colloidal bismuth subcitrate or any component of the tablet","Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.","Avoid long-term use without medical supervision due to risk of bismuth accumulation.","Use with caution in elderly patients and those with renal impairment.","May cause darkening of tongue and black stools, which are harmless but can be mistaken for bleeding.","Avoid alcohol and NSAIDs during treatment to reduce risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.","Inform your doctor if you are taking antibiotics, blood thinners, or antacids.","Do not use for simple heartburn without consulting a doctor."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Bismuth is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe for short-term use, but consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine may cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can lead to bismuth encephalopathy, especially in patients with renal impairment. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Hemodialysis may be beneficial in cases of severe toxicity with renal failure. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, preferably with meals to reduce stomach upset. Avoid taking antacids or other medicines within two hours of this medicine, as they may interfere with its effectiveness. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can worsen stomach irritation. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially blood thinners, antibiotics, and medicines for arthritis. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. If you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have reduced kidney function and are at higher risk of bismuth accumulation. Dose adjustment and regular monitoring of renal function are recommended. They should also be monitored for neurological symptoms.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, use this medicine only if prescribed by your surgeon. It may interact with other medications and affect healing. Inform your surgeon about all medicines you are taking.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine can cause temporary darkening of the tongue, which may be noticeable during dental examinations. Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It does not usually interfere with dental procedures, but maintain good oral hygiene.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can worsen peptic ulcers and delay healing.
🥗
Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce stomach acid production.
😴
Avoid spicy, fatty, and acidic foods that can irritate the stomach lining.
💧
Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
🧘
Get adequate sleep to support the body's natural healing processes.
🌞
Maintain good oral hygiene to manage tongue discoloration.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally safe while taking this medicine. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid strenuous activities and consult your doctor. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Eat lean proteins such as chicken, fish, and tofu.
Avoid caffeine, carbonated drinks, and spicy foods.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Limit intake of processed and fried foods.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is unlikely to affect your ability to work or drive. However, if you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. It is generally safe to continue your daily activities as tolerated.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better, to ensure complete healing and prevent recurrence. If you experience serious side effects, stop the medicine and seek immediate medical attention.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine at high doses can lead to bismuth accumulation in the body, potentially causing encephalopathy, especially in patients with kidney impairment. Regular monitoring of kidney function and neurological symptoms is recommended for prolonged therapy. It is important to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

Medicines like omeprazole reduce stomach acid production and are often used alongside or instead of bismuth for ulcer treatment.

Evidence: Well-established
H2 receptor antagonists

Medicines like ranitidine reduce acid secretion and can help heal ulcers.

Evidence: Well-established
Lifestyle modifications

Dietary changes, stress reduction, and avoiding NSAIDs can complement medical therapy.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, consult your doctor for personalized advice if you are scheduled for vaccination.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually to maintain consistent intervals. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines. Always keep a sufficient supply for your trip and avoid packing it in checked luggage.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old man with a history of recurrent peptic ulcers
He was prescribed this medicine as part of a quadruple therapy for H. pylori eradication. He took it four times daily with meals. After two weeks, his abdominal pain significantly reduced. He noticed black stools but was reassured by his doctor that it was a harmless side effect. He completed the full course and his follow-up test showed successful eradication of H. pylori.
💡 Lesson: Adhering to the prescribed schedule and completing the full course is crucial for eradicating H. pylori and preventing ulcer recurrence. Black stools are a common, harmless side effect.
👤 A 60-year-old woman with chronic gastritis and mild kidney impairment
She was started on this medicine for gastritis. Her doctor adjusted the dose and monitored her kidney function regularly. She experienced mild nausea initially, which subsided after taking the medicine with food. She was advised not to take antacids within 2 hours of the medicine. Her symptoms improved over four weeks without any serious side effects.
💡 Lesson: In patients with kidney impairment, dose adjustment and monitoring are essential. Taking the medicine with food helps reduce nausea.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts forming a protective barrier within 30 to 60 minutes, but noticeable symptom relief may take a few days. Complete ulcer healing may take several weeks.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, it is best taken with meals to reduce stomach upset. However, avoid taking it with milk or dairy products as they can reduce its absorption.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy. It should be used only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

A: It is advisable to avoid alcohol as it can increase stomach irritation and worsen ulcer symptoms.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe to take with other antibiotics?
  • How long does it take to show effect?

🔄 Substitutes for bistas tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure ulcers instantly.
    Fact: This medicine helps heal ulcers over time, but complete healing may take several weeks. It is not an instant cure.
  • Myth: Black stools mean internal bleeding.
    Fact: Black stools are a common and harmless side effect of bismuth. However, if you have other symptoms like dizziness or weakness, consult your doctor.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine as soon as you feel better.
    Fact: You should complete the full course as prescribed to ensure the ulcer heals completely and to prevent recurrence.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Colloidal bismuth subcitrate 120 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Bistas Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Colloidal bismuth subcitrate","class":"Gastroprotective agent","main_use":"Peptic ulcer, gastritis","route":"Oral","key_side_effects":"Dark tongue, black stools, nausea"},{"medicine":"Bismuth subsalicylate","class":"Antidiarrheal, gastroprotective","main_use":"Diarrhea, indigestion","route":"Oral","key_side_effects":"Black stools, constipation"},{"medicine":"Sucralfate","class":"Gastroprotective agent","main_use":"Peptic ulcer","route":"Oral","key_side_effects":"Constipation, dry mouth"},{"medicine":"Omeprazole","class":"Proton pump inhibitor","main_use":"GERD, peptic ulcer","route":"Oral","key_side_effects":"Headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain"}]

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