When was kaopectate invented

Today, we think of how Pepto-Bismol soothes the digestive system after we've overindulged at a meal. But in its early days, a different form of Pepto-Bismol did more than comfort; it actually helped treat symptoms of a more serious illness.

The invention of what we now know as Pepto-Bismol coincided with other health advances, such as milk pasteurization and public campaigns advocating hand washing. The early success of Pepto-Bismol presented a production crisis for its inventor, who couldn't make enough product in his home to satisfy demand. The liquid form of Kaopectate was altered in when California sued. About 80 per cent of the lead has been removed from the liquid.

The key ingredient in Kaopectate is attapulgite clay, which contains large amounts of lead. But the caplets have not been reformulated. A single dose of the unreformulated Kaopectate designated for adults contained times as much lead as is considered acceptable under the requirements of Proposition 65, according to tests conducted in by the Oakland-based environmental organization Center for Environmental Health.

Kaopecate is often given to children, who face the most harmful effects of lead exposure because it can alter their developing brains, impair growth and cause kidney damage. Tests by the attorney general confirmed the high lead levels. As part of the agreement, said Michael Green, executive director of the Center for Environmental Health, the products will be reformulated nationally.

Environmental groups that wrote Proposition 65 say the idea was not to besiege California consumers with warning signs, but to pressure manufacturers to alter their products to reduce exposure to toxic substances. Featured events Applications due: Wellbeing educator training November Animal Welfare Assessment Contest November 19 — Newsletters Get the latest updates on your choice of veterinary topics delivered straight to your inbox.

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Kaopectate reformulation could be dangerous to cats. Published on November 01,