Yes, Percy Medicine is Still Made Today
For many who grew up with it, Percy Medicine is a familiar household name, and the good news for loyal users is that it has not been discontinued. While the company and production methods have changed over its long history, the product remains available for purchase today. The original Merrick Medicine Company of Waco, Texas, has since outsourced manufacturing to a larger pharmaceutical plant in East Texas, but the formula continues to be distributed under the Percy brand.
This longevity is a testament to the brand's lasting appeal, which offers relief for upset stomach, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues, much like more widely known brands today.
The Storied History of Percy Medicine
The story of Percy Medicine begins in the late 19th century. In 1898, a baby named Albert Percy fell ill with an upset stomach while traveling through Kentucky with his father, A.W. Percy. A local doctor provided a liquid remedy that quickly soothed the child's symptoms. Impressed by the results, A.W. Percy later asked Waco, Texas, pharmacist W.S. Merrick to recreate the concoction. In 1904, the two men officially went into business together to create and sell the product, originally branded as “Baby Percy Medicine”. In 1938, the name was changed to simply “Percy Medicine”. The brand operated out of its original factory for over a century before production was moved in 2010, though the company’s headquarters remain in Waco.
Percy Medicine Ingredients and Uses
The active ingredient in Percy Medicine is bismuth subsalicylate, a compound found in many modern antidiarrheal and upset stomach remedies. This ingredient works by calming stomach lining irritation and slowing the growth of certain bacteria that can cause diarrhea.
In addition to the active ingredient, the liquid formula includes a number of inactive ingredients, many of which contribute to its distinctive taste and consistency:
- Calcium Hydroxide
- Citric Acid
- Ethyl Alcohol (5%)
- Glycerin
- Gum Arabic
- Oil of Cinnamon
- Oil of Orange
- Potassium Carbonate
- Rhubarb Fluidextract
- Sugar
- Water
The medicine is specifically indicated for the relief of:
- Diarrhea, including traveler's diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Indigestion and upset stomach
- Symptoms associated with overindulgence in food or drink
Important Safety Considerations
Due to its salicylate content, similar to aspirin, Percy Medicine and other bismuth subsalicylate products carry specific safety warnings. It should not be given to children or teenagers who are recovering from chickenpox or flu symptoms, as this can increase the risk of Reye's Syndrome, a rare but serious illness. Individuals who are allergic to salicylates or take other salicylate-containing products should also avoid it. It is also recommended to consult a doctor before use if you have an ulcer, a bleeding problem, or are taking medications for blood thinning, diabetes, gout, or arthritis.
Modern Alternatives to Percy Medicine
For those seeking alternatives, either because Percy Medicine is not readily available in their area or due to specific ingredient concerns, several other over-the-counter products are on the market. Below is a comparison table of Percy Medicine and some of its common alternatives.
| Feature | Percy Medicine (Bismuth Subsalicylate) | Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth Subsalicylate) | Kaopectate (Bismuth Subsalicylate) | Imodium (Loperamide) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Bismuth Subsalicylate | Bismuth Subsalicylate | Bismuth Subsalicylate | Loperamide HCl |
| Primary Use | Diarrhea, Upset Stomach, Heartburn, Nausea | Diarrhea, Upset Stomach, Heartburn, Nausea | Diarrhea, Upset Stomach, Indigestion | Diarrhea only (slows intestinal movement) |
| Mechanism | Coats stomach lining, slows bacteria growth | Coats stomach lining, slows bacteria growth | Coats stomach lining, absorbs fluids | Slows down digestion |
| Reye's Syndrome Risk | Yes, due to salicylate content | Yes, due to salicylate content | Yes, due to salicylate content | No |
| Availability | Available online and in some regional retailers | Widely available in most stores | Widely available in most stores | Widely available in most stores |
| Taste/Format | Liquid (specific flavor) | Liquid, chewable tablets, caplets (various flavors) | Liquid, chewable tablets, caplets | Caplets, liquid |
Why is Percy Medicine Less Common Now?
Though still produced, Percy Medicine is less ubiquitous than brands like Pepto-Bismol for a few key reasons. First, its production shift from a small, local factory to a contracted manufacturer changed its distribution model, affecting its availability in many regional stores. Secondly, the widespread marketing and distribution of competitors like Pepto-Bismol have made them the more recognizable and accessible options for many consumers. The brand's history also includes a period where production was allegedly moved to Mexico and a potential patent issue arose, which may have impacted its market position.
Despite these shifts, Percy Medicine maintains a loyal customer base and is particularly treasured in certain regions of Texas where it originated. The historic recipe, including its unique flavor profile, is a key draw for many devoted users.
Conclusion: A Historic Remedy Continues On
In conclusion, Percy Medicine is still being made and is available for purchase, though its production has changed hands and its distribution is not as widespread as it once was. As an antidiarrheal and antacid with bismuth subsalicylate as its active ingredient, it remains a viable option for those seeking relief from upset stomach and diarrhea. Its long and storied history, coupled with a faithful following, ensures that this classic remedy continues to be part of the pharmacology landscape, even with many alternatives now available.
For those interested in the full history of the company and its operations, the Waco History project offers insights.
