Cocaine Toothache Drops? Prior to 1914, cocaine was legal in the United States and, like the opiates, was widely used as an ingredient in over-the-counter medicines (Jonnes, 1999). From this 1885 advertisement for Cocaine Toothache Drops, it’s clear that cocaine was used to treat children as well as adults. Cocaine derivatives, such as novocaine and lidocaine, are still used medically as anesthetics. Cocaine was also part of Coca-Cola’s original formula in 1888. It was replaced in 1903 with another stimulant, caffeine. Coca leaves, with the cocaine extracted for medical purposes, are still used for flavoring cola drinks.

The Granger Collection