Drug interactions
Bismuth subsalicylate + Propranolol
Severity: Moderate
Bismuth subsalicylate and Propranolol: moderate interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Salicylate from bismuth subsalicylate may reduce the antihypertensive effect of propranolol through reduced renal prostaglandin synthesis and fluid retention. The effect is mainly seen with repeated or high doses.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bismuth subsalicylate and Propranolol can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Bismuth subsalicylate belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Propranolol belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
Salicylate inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, causing sodium and fluid retention that opposes the antihypertensive effect.
What to do
Limit bismuth subsalicylate to short courses and monitor blood pressure if used repeatedly.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Bismuth subsalicylate
- Bismuth subsalicylate + Dichlorphenamide Major
- Bismuth subsalicylate + Warfarin Major
- Acetylsalicylic acid + Bismuth subsalicylate Moderate
- Amlodipine-benazepril + Bismuth subsalicylate Moderate
- Aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate + Bismuth subsalicylate Moderate
- Aspirin rectal + Bismuth subsalicylate Moderate
Other interactions of Propranolol
- Propranolol + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Propranolol Major
- Adrenaline-articaine + Propranolol Major
- Amifostine + Propranolol Major
- Amiodarone + Propranolol Major
- Arformoterol + Propranolol Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bismuth subsalicylate with Propranolol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Bismuth subsalicylate and Propranolol can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Salicylate from bismuth subsalicylate may reduce the antihypertensive effect of propranolol through reduced renal prostaglandin synthesis and fluid retention. The effect is mainly seen with repeated or high doses.
How serious is the interaction between Bismuth subsalicylate and Propranolol?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Limit bismuth subsalicylate to short courses and monitor blood pressure if used repeatedly.
What other medicines interact with Bismuth subsalicylate?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Bismuth subsalicylate with, for example, Dichlorphenamide, Warfarin, Acetylsalicylic acid. The full list is on the Bismuth subsalicylate page.
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