Pepto-Bismol
Brand
Bismuth subsalicylate, sold under the brand name Pepto-Bismol, is a medication used to treat temporary discomforts of the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, such as diarrhea, indigestion, heartburn and nausea. Commonly known as pink bismuth, it is also sometimes the active ingredient in Kaopectate.
The formula of the pink medicine we now call Pepto-Bismol was originally developed at the start of the 20th century. Looking to cure a frightening form of cholera that caused severe diarrhea, vomiting, and sometimes death, a doctor concocted a formula in his home that proved effective against these symptoms. The formula (which was different from today's) was made from pepsin, zinc salts, salol, and oil of wintergreen, along with a colorant to make it pink, and he called it Mixture Cholera Infantum.
Subject ID: 15865
MoreBismuth subsalicylate, sold under the brand name Pepto-Bismol, is a medication used to treat temporary discomforts of the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, such as diarrhea, indigestion, heartburn and nausea. Commonly known as pink bismuth, it is also sometimes the active ingredient in Kaopectate.
The formula of the pink medicine we now call Pepto-Bismol was originally developed at the start of the 20th century. Looking to cure a frightening form of cholera that caused severe diarrhea, vomiting, and sometimes death, a doctor concocted a formula in his home that proved effective against these symptoms. The formula (which was different from today's) was made from pepsin, zinc salts, salol, and oil of wintergreen, along with a colorant to make it pink, and he called it Mixture Cholera Infantum.
The early success of Pepto-Bismol presented a production crisis for its inventor, who couldn't make enough. He brought his formula to what was then called the Norwich Pharmacal Company in Norwich, New York. Norwich Pharmacal had a way to increase production dramatically – by manufacturing it in 20-gallon tubs.
During the 1920s, Pepto-Bismol was sold at drugstore soda fountains. They had large bottles with stoppers, from which druggists dispensed single doses.
Pepto-Bismol came to the Procter & Gamble Company as part of the Company's acquisition of Norwich Eaton Pharmaceuticals in 1982.
Subject ID: 15865
Subject ID: 15865
