Acetaminophen was first synthesized in 1878 and first used to treat pain and fever in 1893. However, it did not become widely available or marketed until the early 1950s. Specifically, McNeil Laboratories introduced Tylenol, a product containing acetaminophen, in 1955 initially as a prescription drug for children. It became available over the counter by 1961. This marked the beginning of acetaminophen's widespread use as a common analgesic and antipyretic medication.
Key Historical Points:
- Synthesized in 1878 by Harmon Northrop Morse.
- First clinical use reported in 1893.
- Marketed widely starting in the 1950s.
- Tylenol introduced by McNeil Laboratories in 1955.
- Over-the-counter availability by 1961.
This timeline shows acetaminophen became therapeutically available and popular as a safer alternative to aspirin and other earlier drugs during the mid-20th century.
