The Surprising History of Whiskey in Baby Bottles—and Why It Was Once Common

A Different Era of Medicine

In the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries, alcohol was widely used in medical treatments for both adults and children.

Doctors sometimes prescribed alcohol as:

• A pain reliever
• A sedative
• A digestive aid
• A treatment for colds or fatigue

Patent medicines sold in stores often contained alcohol, opium, morphine, or other substances that would be considered extremely unsafe today.

Many parents simply trusted the medical advice and cultural norms of the time.