When was childrens tylenol invented

The prescription-only version, Tylenol with codeine, became among the most widely prescribed drugs in the U. He went to work at his family firm, where he created a research department. McNeil's grandfather in Philadelphia's Kensington neighborhood. The business grew over time, losing its soda fountain as it was transformed into a supplier of drugs that doctors dispensed themselves. In , Mr. McNeil's father retired and Mr. McNeil and his brother Henry became respectively chairman and president of the company, which by then was producing dozens of prescription drugs.

Acetaminophen, or paracetamol as it is known in much of the rest of the world, had been known since a related drug was synthesized by a chemist at Germany's Bayer Co. It had been sold as a headache remedy in many countries.

McNeil found out about it in the early s at a drug-industry conference. Other companies had looked into producing the drug in the U. McNeil's strategy was not to go up against aspirin, but to offer it as a children's remedy that was safe, palatable and easier on the stomach than aspirin. The name Tylenol—a shortening of the drug's chemical name—was suggested by a McNeil marketing director, while Mr.

McNeil came up with the generic name acetaminophen, according to "Pharmaceutical Achievers," a medical reference book. Don't Have an Account? Sign Up Now! Use another account. Sign In. You are Now Registered! When you sign up, you'll get access to personalized communications, exclusive values, useful advice, and health related tips beyond medication delivered to your inbox. Each month the site is refreshed with new content. Sign up below. Link an existing social account:. Already Signed Up?

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