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Rieveschl holding a Benadryl capsule, the medication that has provided allergy relief to millions worldwide. From the George Rieveschl, Jr. Papers of The Lloyd Library & Museum
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US
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39.13983432051, -84.506563294478
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160 Panzeca Way
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Cincinnati
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The antihistamine Benadryl has provided temporary relief from allergy symptoms for millions of people since it was developed by George Rieveschl at a University of Cincinnati laboratory in the early 1940s and later approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Rieveschl was originally studying muscle relaxants when he discovered the compound diphenhydramine hydrochloride. He sold it under the name ‘Benadryl,’ among others. The medication was sold by Parke-Davis, followed by Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and now Kenvue, the former consumer healthcare division of Johnson & Johnson.

Thumb
Early Benadryl packaging from Parke-Davis, which purchased the rights to Rieveschl’s discovery in 1943. From the George Rieveschl, Jr. Papers of The Lloyd Library & Museum
Image Credit
George Rieveschl, Jr. Papers of The Lloyd Library & Museum
Image Caption
Rieveschl holding a Benadryl capsule, the medication that has provided allergy relief to millions worldwide.

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