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In Paris Now -- Need Pepto Bismol Substitute?

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In Paris Now -- Need Pepto Bismol Substitute?

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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 02:23 AM
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In Paris Now -- Need Pepto Bismol Substitute?

We are currently in Paris enjoying our visit; however, sometimes Mr. 007 suffers from upset stomach with certain rich foods, like duck or other things and takes a sip or two of Pepto Bismol to settle his system. He's running low on it and according to Google, the pink stuff has been banned in France. I suppose the French rarely have this condition but if they do, what would they ask for at the pharmacie?

Thanks in advance!

tw
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 02:56 AM
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I would just do that : go To a pharmacy and explain.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 03:04 AM
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^Exactly
The pharmacy in France (written: pharmacie, with a giant green cross next to the door that you can see from afar) are excellent and not expensive at all. They have all kind of pills, from digestive problems to allergies to all kinds of pain. Just explain to them. You may show them the box of your usual pills, they'll know what to replace.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 03:50 AM
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I can usually find an antacid pill otc. If not look for some baking soda soda and mix a teaspoon in water and drink.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 04:06 AM
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Maybe Rennies will help? http://rennie.info/en/home.php

https://www.brulures-estomac-info.fr/ has a few options
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 05:54 AM
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And for future trips...PB also comes in pill form. MUCH easier to carry with you.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 06:05 AM
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An antacid? Try whole milk if nothing else. NOW, I'm waiting for all the would-be pharmacists and others to chime in.

Yes, we know milk has fat and sodium and calories like that duck which was eaten which has all three, also.

You said it was caused by "rich foods." Fine but if this is a continual issue perhaps an evaluation is in order.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 07:35 AM
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Thanks to all who responded. Yes, it's an odd condition, not acid reflux: fries are no problem but tempura has him retching. Duck doesn't agree with him but ice cream is no problem. Go figure.

We're not certain if it was the escargots or the steak tartare, and he hasn't even gotten to foie gras yet, but I'm thinking we'd better get something before he does. Again, many thanks!
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 07:42 AM
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I agree just ask at the pharmacie, but Gaviscon (essentially a liquid bicarbonate of soda) works well.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 07:49 AM
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High levels of bismuth in medication are forbidden in France, as it is a heavy metal which attacks the brain. Therefore, no Pepto Bismol.

Many other medications can be suggested at any pharmacy to fight indigestion.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 08:29 AM
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Trust the pharmacie. When I developed a foot blister in Paris, I went into a pharmacie and asked for foot powder. No, I was told, that is the wrong material as it causes friction. Use this cream. It worked like a charm. (And I learned that the word for blister is the same as the word for light bulb, ampoule, and friction is frottage.)
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 08:42 AM
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I have had that problem as Pepto Bismo is my go-to medicine for diarrhea or stomach issues. It has nothing to do with acid, at least for me, as to why I take it. Now I pack my own just in case (the tablets), as I found you couldn't buy it in France. I did have some problem explaining to the pharmacy what I needed though, they didn't understand even though I was speaking French as they couldn't seem to comprehend a stomach problem that was not acid. They probably would understand acid issues.

FYI they sell Maalox in France, that should be useful to you if you aren't sure. there is also a brand called Rennie which consists of calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate for stomach acid problems which you should be able to find there, I think it's made by Bayer.
http://www.rennie.co.uk/
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 10:13 AM
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There are more than one pharmacy in Paris, if someone doesn't understand you or your french, try another one. If problem persists, try in english...When I go to a pharmacy they understand me.

As for heavy metal being bad for the brains, I totally disagree, being a fan of Metallica Iron Maiden etc. My brains are still intact.

Errr, now that you mention it. Or maybe it is alcohol ?
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 10:31 AM
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You can get TUMS at the American Pharmacie on the Champs-Elysees.
Gaviscon and Gavisconell are similar to Pepto-Bismol.
But the pharmacist might insist on giving you charcoal tablets...
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 12:48 PM
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You must be referring to the Pharmacie anglaise on rue la Boëtie.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 12:49 PM
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Keep in mind that many people seem to find the French/European remedies for certain afflictions superior to what you have been using in the United States. If you find this to be the case, don't forget to stock up on the product before you go home.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 01:38 PM
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Our local friends always asked us to return from France with Digedryl.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 01:43 PM
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Woin: it depends, I have been listening to Metallica Iron Maiden Black Sabbath too, and my brain is a little bit nut.

Or maybe I don't have enough alcohol to protect it.
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Old Dec 16th, 2016, 05:34 PM
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Ask for IMODIUM - the active ingredient is Lopéramide

Give the pharmacist those two words and you'll get what you need.
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Old Dec 17th, 2016, 12:05 AM
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>>Keep in mind that many people seem to find the French/European remedies for certain afflictions superior to what you have been using in the United States. If you find this to be the case, don't forget to stock up on the product before you go home.<<

We would love to find that. The problem is not acid, it's nausea.

Thanks to everyone for the different suggestions. We will see what the pharmacie says, but you all have provided a starting point with your recommendations.
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