ZOX.
Zox is a powder made by a Company with an address in London and the price charged is 1s. for a box containing eight powders. It was described on the wrapper as:
The most marvellous pain reliever. Instantly cures Toothache, Neuralgia, Headache, Sciatica, and all Nerve Pains. Pure, Harmless, not Aperient.
In a circular enclosed with the box directions were given for taking the powders for neuralgia, toothache, headache, sciatica, rheumatic and gouty pains, and influenza. For neuralgia the directions were:
Ono Powder should be taken when in pain, and should the enemy return, continue the Powders every four hours, for a few days. If very weak from continual pain, take a few doses of Zox Tonic; this will give you speedy relief.
For rheumatic and gout pains:
Take one Zox Powder two or three times a day while pain is acute; avoid beer and spirits of all kinds.
The average weight of the powders was 4½ grains, single powders in a box varying in weight from 4 to 6 grains. Analysis showed the powder to consist of acetanilide only.
The estimated cost of the drug for eight powders is one-tenth of a penny.