Think pink: Pepto Bismol to the rescue

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Several studies have shown that high doses of Pepto Bismol can avert about 60 percent of infections.

The recommended amount: Two tablets — or 2 ounces of liquid — four times a day, every day of your trip.

That's a lot of pink, said Dr. Christopher Sanford, director of the Hall Health Travel Clinic at the University of Washington. "The schedule is so onerous, a lot of people can't keep it up," he said.

The drug also has side effects: It temporarily turns your tongue and stool black and can sometimes cause ringing in the ears. Washing the medicine down with lots of water can help keep your tongue looking normal, Sanford said.

The drug's active ingredient is bismuth subsalicylate, which seems to have a mild germ-killing effect.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control Prevention says the regimen is safe for most people for up to three weeks.

— Sandi Doughton

Copyright © 2003 The Seattle Times Company