Bismuth subgallate

Bismuth subgallate, with a chemical formula C7H5BiO6, is the active ingredient in the over-the-counter medicine, Devrom that is an internal deodorant commonly used to treat malodor by deodorizing flatulence and stool. Also, it has been used to treat Helicobacter pylori infection and is used in wound therapy. As an internal deodorant, it is commonly used by individuals who have had ostomy surgery, bariatric surgery, fecal incontinence, and irritable bowel syndrome.

It can cause darkening of the tongue and stools, which is temporary and harmless. A reversible encephalopathy was noted and examined in subjects taking very large doses of Bismuth subgallate in a medical study. Authors concluded that it is unlikely that Bismuth subgallate was responsible for the illness. The neurological syndrome in the subjects does not resemble effects of bismuth when administered parenterally or by mouth.