A - Bismuth subsalicylate, the new active ingredient in Kaopectate, controls diarrhea within 24 hours. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, it is believed to work by several mechanisms in the gut:

A - The new formula contains the active ingredient bismuth subsalicylate, which has been proven in clinical studies to be more effective than the active ingredient in the old formula.  
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A - The new Kaopectate formula is currently available in liquid form and will be available caplet form later in 2003. The 2 adult liquids come in regular (vanilla) and peppermint flavors and are available in 8- and 12oz bottles. Kaopectate is also available in a 6oz Children’s liquid formula in a great tasting cherry flavor, and an 8oz Extra Strength liquid formula in peppermint. Kaopectate caplets are available in the old formula and will be available in the new formula later in 2003. Caplets come in 12- and 20- count boxes.  
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A - The Extra Strength formula contains twice the active ingredient per tablespoonful than the regular strength formula allowing you to relieve your diarrhea with fewer doses. You should take Extra Strength if your diarrhea is more severe and/or you want to limit the number of doses you need to take before you get relief.  
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A - Kaopectate liquid and caplets are approved for use by children down to age 3, however we recommend children between the ages of 3 and 8 use Children’s Kaopectate liquid. For children under the age of 3, consult with your doctor.  
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A - Kaopectate may cause a harmless darkening of the tongue or stool that is caused when the active ingredient (bismuth subsalicylate) combines with the healthy bacteria in your saliva and gastrointestinal (GI) tract and forms a black-colored substance called bismuth sulfide. It is not an alarming sign and should go away within several days after you stop using the medication. You do not need to stop using the product as a result of this harmless and temporary side effect. If the discoloration of the stool does not subside after discontinuing use, however, consult your physician, as this may be a sign of a more serious condition.  
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A - Salicylate is a substance that is present in aspirin. It possesses analgesic (pain killing) and anti-inflammatory properties. Bismuth subsalicylate, the active ingredient in Kaopectate liquids, is related to aspirin.  
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A - Allergic reactions to salicylates have been noted in patients with known hypersensitivity to aspirin and related compounds.|

While the exact cause of Reye’s syndrome is not completely understood, the risk of Reye’s syndrome can increase when you take aspirin or other salicylates while suffering or recovering from the chicken pox, flu or flu symptoms.

Reye’s syndrome has been associated with salicylate administration during viral illness. Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chicken pox, flu symptoms or flu should not use this product. If nausea, vomiting or fever occur, consult a doctor because this could be an early sign of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
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A - No. You should not use this product if you are allergic to aspirin or other salicylates.  
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A - Yes. The old formula is still available in caplet form and will be until later in 2003. At that time, the caplets will also be reformulated and the old formula will no longer be available.  
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A - Kaopectate caplets are also being reformulated, but the new formula won’t be available until later in 2003. The old formula is still available in the stores where you shop.  
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A - Although storage under typical refrigeration conditions (36º – 40º F) is not likely to have an impact on the performance of the product, we recommend you store the product at 66º – 77º F.  
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A - Follow the directions on the label. You do not need to take it with food.  
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A - If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use.  
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