A Hangover and a Discovery
In 1971, English scientist Stewart Adams faced a throbbing hangover after a celebratory night in Moscow. With an important speech looming, he took a 600-milligram dose of a new drug he had helped develop. To his amazement, the headache vanished, marking an impromptu and successful test of ibuprofen.
Creating the Miracle Drug
Adams and chemist John Nicholson tested over 600 compounds, seeking an anti-inflammatory treatment without aspirin’s side effects. After years of trial and error, they patented ibuprofen in 1966. First introduced as a prescription drug in 1969, it soon became a global over-the-counter staple under names like Advil and Motrin.
Widespread Impact
Ibuprofen revolutionized pain relief, addressing everything from arthritis to headaches and menstrual pain. By 2011, it was estimated that a package sold every three seconds in the U.S. Despite its success, Adams humbly purchased ibuprofen like any customer and never sought personal gain from the invention.
A Lasting Legacy
Stewart Adams, honored with numerous awards, passed away in 2019 at 95. His groundbreaking work alongside Nicholson transformed pain management, offering safe and effective relief to millions around the world.
In 1971, English scientist Stewart Adams faced a throbbing hangover after a celebratory night in Moscow. With an important speech looming, he took a 600-milligram dose of a new drug he had helped develop. To his amazement, the headache vanished, marking an impromptu and… pic.twitter.com/smCr4TY1zQ
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