Why does Pepto Bismol turn your tongue black?

Question

The other night I woke up with bad breath and a black tongue. After researching it online, I realized it was from the Pepto Bismol I took the night before.

I know it's caused by some type of reaction, but why does it turn black? And the taste is horrible.

Answer 1

it just happened to me last night... bizarre

Answer 2

honestly i have never heard of pepto bismol turning anyone's tongue black, nor have i experienced it.  sorry.  it would have scared/worried me  

Answer 3

That's not the only thing Pepto Bismol will turn black. Wait a day or two. You'll see what I mean.

It's because it contains a chemical called bismuth. They treat it to look pink in the bottle, but once the pink coloring goes away it's very dark in color.