Miles Laboratories

Miles Laboratories was an American pharmaceutical company known for producing items such as Alka-Seltzer and Flintstones vitamins, and was based in Elkhart, Indiana. Founded in 1884 by Dr. Franklin Miles, a specialist in the treatment of eye and ear disorders, the company was originally called the Dr. Miles Medical Company.

History

Dr. Franklin Miles started the company with the aim of producing medicines using a new method, which he called "Homeopathic" medicines. The company's first product was called "Nervine", a product designed to help with sleep and nervous disorders.

In 1935, the company introduced Alka-Seltzer, a combination of aspirin, sodium bicarbonate, and citric acid. It was designed to help with minor aches and pains, but also to help with the discomfort of acid indigestion and heartburn.

In 1979, Miles Laboratories was acquired by Bayer, a German multinational pharmaceutical and life sciences company. Under Bayer, the company continued to produce and innovate in the field of pharmaceuticals.

Products

Miles Laboratories was known for several popular products. These included:

• Alka-Seltzer: A combination of aspirin, sodium bicarbonate, and citric acid, Alka-Seltzer was designed to help with minor aches and pains, but also to help with the discomfort of acid indigestion and heartburn.
• Flintstones Vitamins: Introduced in 1968, Flintstones Vitamins were the first chewable vitamins designed for children. They were shaped like characters from the popular Flintstones cartoon.
• One-A-Day: A range of multivitamins, One-A-Day was designed to provide all the necessary vitamins and minerals in one daily tablet.

Legacy

Miles Laboratories was a pioneer in the pharmaceutical industry, introducing several products that are still popular today. The company's innovative approach to medicine helped shape the industry and set the standard for future pharmaceutical companies.