What digestive condition inspired the name Pepsi?

Dyspepsia, a term for indigestion, inspired the name Pepsi.

Caleb Bradham created Pepsi in New Bern, North Carolina, in the 1890s. He originally sold the drink as Brad’s Drink at his pharmacy. In 1898, he renamed it Pepsi-Cola, connecting the product with the idea that it could aid digestion.

The name’s association with dyspepsia reflects the medical and tonic language commonly used in soft-drink advertising at the time. Early colas were often promoted as refreshing beverages with digestive or restorative qualities, although modern Pepsi is marketed as a soft drink rather than a medical product.

The name is not derived from the word “pep,” despite the brand’s energetic image. It also does not refer to a specific ingredient called “pepsi.”