This original French pharmacy tin once contained Cocaine Pastilles, medicated throat lozenges manufactured in Paris. The front label advertises the period formula of cocaïne, borate, and menthol, a combination prescribed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries to soothe sore throats, hoarseness, and inflammation before cocaine's medical use became heavily restricted. This container remains an authentic survivor from a period when cocaine was still a recognized pharmaceutical ingredient rather than a prohibited substance.
Before modern local anesthetics became available, pharmaceutical cocaine was widely accepted in medical practice. Following its anesthetic properties becoming known in the 1880s, cocaine was incorporated into numerous legitimate preparations for dental work, ophthalmology, and throat remedies. Lozenges like these were marketed to relieve sore throats, calm persistent coughs, and temporarily numb irritated tissues.
Details
Origin: Paris, France
Maker: Laboratoires Houdé
Date: Early to Mid-20th Century (approximately 1910–1940s)
Material: Lithographed tinplate
Finish: Original pharmaceutical label
Dimensions: Approximately 3¾ in. W × 2¾ in. H × ¾ in. D
Condition: Displays age-appropriate wear consistent with antique pharmaceutical packaging, including surface scratches, edge wear, light oxidation, and toning. Graphics remain bold and highly legible with attractive overall presentation. Please review photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
