Health & Medicine

Iron Lung

The Museum's collections of medical science artifacts represent nearly all aspects of health and medical practice. Highlights include early X-ray apparatuses, such as one of Wilhelm Roentgen's tubes, penicillin mold from Alexander Fleming’s experiments, and Jonas Salk's original polio vaccine. More recent acquisitions include the first artificial heart implanted in a human, the earliest genetically engineered drugs, and materials related to David, the "Bubble Boy." Other artifacts range from artificial limbs and implant devices to bloodletting and dental instruments, beauty products, and veterinary equipment. The contents of a medieval apothecary shop and an 1890s drugstore form part of the collections, along with patent and alternative medicines. The collections also document the many differing perspectives on health and medical issues, from patients, family members, doctors, nurses, medical students, and out-of-the-mainstream health practitioners.

Topic: Pain & Neuralgia Drugs

Angeline for Rheumatic Fever

The indications or uses for this product as provided on its packaging:For rheumatic fever, neuralgia, gout, headache, muscular aches and pains, and muscular lumbagoCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided on its packaging:
For rheumatic fever, neuralgia, gout, headache, muscular aches and pains, and muscular lumbago
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
after 1932
1932-1938
after 1906
maker
Angeline Corporation
ID Number
MG.M-10426.29
catalog number
M-10426
accession number
246707

Wintergreen Leaves (Gaultheria)

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer, or as found in contemporary medical literature, are:For use in rheumatism, diarrhea, gout, and febrile conditions [The Merck Index, 4th Edition, 1930]Currently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer, or as found in contemporary medical literature, are:
For use in rheumatism, diarrhea, gout, and febrile conditions [The Merck Index, 4th Edition, 1930]
Location
Currently not on view
date made
before 1964
maker
George Washington University. School of Pharmacy
ID Number
MG.M-10904.014
catalog number
M-10904.014
accession number
259201

Dr. Kilmer's Prompt Parilla Liver Pills

The indications or uses for this product as provided on its packaging:For headache, drowsiness, bad taste in the mouth, torpid liver, constipation, biliousness, nausea, flatulence, belching of wind, sour stomach, distress after eating, poor appetite, the complexionCurrently not o
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided on its packaging:
For headache, drowsiness, bad taste in the mouth, torpid liver, constipation, biliousness, nausea, flatulence, belching of wind, sour stomach, distress after eating, poor appetite, the complexion
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
ca 1900
maker
Dr. Kilmer and Company
ID Number
MG.M-10413.02
catalog number
M-10413.02
accession number
246707

Warner's Safe Nervine

The indications or uses for this product as provided on its packaging:For headache, neuralgia, insomnia and nervous prostrationCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided on its packaging:
For headache, neuralgia, insomnia and nervous prostration
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1898
ca 1898
date made
ca 1920
maker
Warner's Safe Remedies Company
ID Number
MG.M-10426.55
catalog number
M-10426
accession number
246707
246707

Atropia, 3X, Tablet Triturates

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer, or as found in contemporary medical literature, are:For use in the same instances as Belladonna [nervous excitement, perverted special sense, twitching, convulsions and pain, excited mental state, hyperaest
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer, or as found in contemporary medical literature, are:
For use in the same instances as Belladonna [nervous excitement, perverted special sense, twitching, convulsions and pain, excited mental state, hyperaesthesia of all sense, delirium, restless sleep, convulsive movements, dryness of mouth and throat with aversion to water, neuralgic pains that come and go suddenly, epileptic spasms followed by nausea and vomiting]. But atropia is less stimulating, less convulsant, and more decidedly hypnotic. Constipates less and affects contractility of the bladder more. It is less diaphoretic and more pruritic [causing itchiness]. [Pocket Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica, Second Edition, 1903]
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1857-1901
maker
Boericke & Tafel
ID Number
MG.311682.1855
catalog number
311682.1855
accession number
311682

Tru Aspirin

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:For colds, acute rheumatism, headache, neuralgia, or other pains of nervous origin, also for the relief of gout, sciatica, tonsilitis, influenzaCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
For colds, acute rheumatism, headache, neuralgia, or other pains of nervous origin, also for the relief of gout, sciatica, tonsilitis, influenza
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
after 1928
maker
Tru-Lax Manufacturing Company
ID Number
MG.293320.0715
accession number
293320
catalog number
293320.0715

Porter's Pain King

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:To relieve colds, nervous and sick headache, rheumatic and neuralgic pains, toothache, backache, sprains, bruises and burnsCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
To relieve colds, nervous and sick headache, rheumatic and neuralgic pains, toothache, backache, sprains, bruises and burns
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
ca 1920
maker
George H. Rundle Company
ID Number
MG.293320.1344
catalog number
293320.1344
accession number
293320

Dent's Dental Poultice

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:For quick temporary relief of pain and soreness due to irritation, congestion, or inflammation of teeth and gums. Especially soothing after extractions, or for gum boils.
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
For quick temporary relief of pain and soreness due to irritation, congestion, or inflammation of teeth and gums. Especially soothing after extractions, or for gum boils. Use whenever dentist recommends a poultice. Smaller size fits more easily into mouth and next to swollen gums; also more comfortable for children.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
after 1955
collection
Reid Drugstore
maker
C. S. Dent and Company
ID Number
1984.0351.256
accession number
1984.0351
catalog number
1984.0351.256

Zam-Buk

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:For minor burns, cuts, insect bites, stings, sprains and minor skin irritations, sunburn, sore feet, chapped hands, etc. Use as dressing or rub in as embrocation as required.Currently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
For minor burns, cuts, insect bites, stings, sprains and minor skin irritations, sunburn, sore feet, chapped hands, etc. Use as dressing or rub in as embrocation as required.
Location
Currently not on view
distributed by
E. Fougera & Company
manufacturer
C.E. Fulford, Ltd.
ID Number
1985.0481.129
catalog number
1985.0481.129
accession number
1985.0481

B.C. Tablets

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:For the relief of pain and discomfort due to headache, neuralgia, minor muscular aches and pains due to head colds, and discomfort due to menstrual periods and tooth extractionCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
For the relief of pain and discomfort due to headache, neuralgia, minor muscular aches and pains due to head colds, and discomfort due to menstrual periods and tooth extraction
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1950
collection
Reid Drugstore
maker
B.C. Remedy Company
ID Number
1984.0351.090
accession number
1984.0351
catalog number
1984.0351.090

Antikamnia Tablets

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:Analgesic, antipyretic, and anodyneCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
Analgesic, antipyretic, and anodyne
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1908-1918
collection
Reid Drugstore
maker
Antikamnia Chemical Company
ID Number
1984.0351.107
accession number
1984.0351
catalog number
1984.0351.107

Antikamnia Tablets

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:Analgesic, antipyretic, and anodyneCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
Analgesic, antipyretic, and anodyne
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1908-1918
collection
Reid Drugstore
maker
Antikamnia Chemical Company
ID Number
1984.0351.106
accession number
1984.0351
catalog number
1984.0351.106

Tobene Unguentum

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:For various types externally caused eczemaCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
For various types externally caused eczema
Location
Currently not on view
date made
after 1942
maker
N.C. Goodwin's Lab
ID Number
1985.0481.122
catalog number
1985.0481.122
accession number
1985.0481

Dr. Miles' Aspir-Mint

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer, or as found in contemporary medical literature, are:For coryza [inflammation of upper respiratory tract], headache, neuralgia, and muscular aches and painsCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer, or as found in contemporary medical literature, are:
For coryza [inflammation of upper respiratory tract], headache, neuralgia, and muscular aches and pains
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1930
maker
Dr. Miles Medical Company
ID Number
1984.0782.122
accession number
1984.0782
catalog number
1984.0782.122

Nyal Vegetable Prescription

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:For disordered menstruation, ovarian neuralgia, and bearing down painCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
For disordered menstruation, ovarian neuralgia, and bearing down pain
Location
Currently not on view
date made
after 1927
retailer
Sherman Pharmacy
distributor
Nyal Company
ID Number
1985.0460.075
accession number
1985.0460
catalog number
1985.0460.075

Gray's Improved Genuine Ointment

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:Aids in relieving the pain and discomfort of boils, minor skin irritations and abrasions, superficial cuts, burns, sun burns and minor bruisesCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
Aids in relieving the pain and discomfort of boils, minor skin irritations and abrasions, superficial cuts, burns, sun burns and minor bruises
Location
Currently not on view
maker
W. F. Gray and Company
ID Number
1985.0481.067
catalog number
1987.0481.067
accession number
1985.0481

Pheny O-Caffein

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:Recommended in relieving sick and nervous headache, sciatica, myalgia, neuralgia, rheumatism, and lumbago. A sedative for nervousness and sleeplessness.
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
Recommended in relieving sick and nervous headache, sciatica, myalgia, neuralgia, rheumatism, and lumbago. A sedative for nervousness and sleeplessness. Allays feverishness, colds, and influenza.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
after 1912
collection
Reid Drugstore
maker
Phenyo-Caffein Company
ID Number
1984.0351.112
accession number
1984.0351
catalog number
1984.0351.112

Aspirin Tablets

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:An aid in the relief of the discomfort due to simple colds, simple headaches, simple neuralgia, and simple sore throatCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
An aid in the relief of the discomfort due to simple colds, simple headaches, simple neuralgia, and simple sore throat
Location
Currently not on view
date made
after 1935
collection
Reid Drugstore
maker
McKesson and Robbins
ID Number
1984.0351.196A
accession number
1984.0351
catalog number
1984.0351.196A

Dr. Hobson's Compound Laxative Cascara Tablets

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer, or as found in contemporary medical literature, are:For constipation and biliousness. Relieves sick and bilious headache.Currently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer, or as found in contemporary medical literature, are:
For constipation and biliousness. Relieves sick and bilious headache.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1906-1917
maker
Pfeiffer Chemical Company
ID Number
1985.0481.051
catalog number
1985.0481.051
accession number
1985.0481

Rexall Gypsy Cream

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:Helps relieve discomfort of sunburn and superficial skin irritationsCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
Helps relieve discomfort of sunburn and superficial skin irritations
Location
Currently not on view
maker
Rexall Drug Company
ID Number
1985.0481.069
catalog number
1985.0481.069
accession number
1985.0481

Emollientine Ointment No. 12

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:Emollientine is particularly useful in the treatment of superficial burns, scalds, cuts, burises, etc., and is soothing as a local application for inflammatory conditions involving the skin and deeper st
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
Emollientine is particularly useful in the treatment of superficial burns, scalds, cuts, burises, etc., and is soothing as a local application for inflammatory conditions involving the skin and deeper structures
Location
Currently not on view
maker
Parke, Davis and Company
ID Number
1985.0481.062
catalog number
1985.0481.062
accession number
1985.0481

Humphrey's Ointment

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:A soothing application to relieve itching, burning and soreness of: simple skin irritations, non-venomous insect bites, minor burns, scalds, cuts and bruises, chafing, prickly heat, windburn, sunburn, si
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
A soothing application to relieve itching, burning and soreness of: simple skin irritations, non-venomous insect bites, minor burns, scalds, cuts and bruises, chafing, prickly heat, windburn, sunburn, simple piles
Location
Currently not on view
maker
Humphreys Medicine Company
ID Number
1985.0481.072
catalog number
1985.0481.072
accession number
1985.0481

Sutherland's Eagle Eye Salve

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:Recommended for relieving inflamed lids, irritated eyes. and inflammation caused by wind, dirt, dust and coldsCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
Recommended for relieving inflamed lids, irritated eyes. and inflammation caused by wind, dirt, dust and colds
Location
Currently not on view
maker
E.E. Southerland Medicine Company
ID Number
1985.0481.109
catalog number
1985.0481.109
accession number
1985.0481

Antikamnia, powdered

The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:Analgesic, antipyretic, anodyneCurrently not on view
Description
The indications or uses for this product as provided by the manufacturer are:
Analgesic, antipyretic, anodyne
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1906-1908
collection
Reid Drugstore
maker
Antikamnia Chemical Company
ID Number
1984.0351.083
accession number
1984.0351
catalog number
1984.0351.083

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