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24/10/2025 3:22 am
During Prohibition (1920–1933), the sale and production of alcohol were banned in the United States, but there were loopholes. One major exception was that whiskey could still be legally sold in pharmacies as “medicine,” if prescribed by a doctor. Patients could present a prescription for ailments ranging from anxiety to indigestion and receive a pint of whiskey. This loophole created a booming trade, as many Americans sought medical prescriptions for what was essentially recreational drinking.
Walgreens, in particular, benefited greatly from this system. Before Prohibition, the chain had about 20 stores, but by the end of the era, it had expanded to over 600 locations. While the company credited its success to factors like its popular soda fountain and customer service, historians widely agree that “prescription whiskey” sales played a key role in Walgreens’ explosive growth during the 1920s. The story remains one of the most famous examples of how businesses adapted — and thrived — despite Prohibition restrictions.
24/10/2025 5:55 am
We learn something new every day...thanks David!
John Bono
North Jersey
24/10/2025 6:03 am
All my prescriptions are at Walgreen's. Bourbon, cognac, vermouth, gin. Some instructions go on to say, Take one every 4-6 hours, shaken, not stirred.
24/10/2025 8:33 pm
Hmm, I have a Walgreens a couple of blocks away. That's a lot closer than the liquor store. 😂🤣😁
25/10/2025 7:29 am
Hmm, I have a Walgreens a couple of blocks away. That's a lot closer than the liquor store. 😂🤣😁
Go past the photo counter, past the pain meds, go beyond the pharmaceutical area and the pharmacist, then stop when you see the bar stools and barkeep.
25/10/2025 7:46 am
Whew! We could spend the rest of today discussing ALL that Prohibition DID and DID NOT accomplish. Interesting footnote in American history David, thanks!
25/10/2025 7:58 am
I'll drink to that!Whew! We could spend the rest of today discussing ALL that Prohibition DID and DID NOT accomplish. Interesting footnote in American history David, thanks!
John Bono
North Jersey
25/10/2025 8:14 am
As I've said before, you learn something new at the forum every day. What fun facts David.
25/10/2025 8:46 am
Go in and get your whiskey and have a Coke at the soda fountain for the cocaine back then. The good old days!
26/10/2025 8:42 am
@geno In reality, I have never drank any whisky or beer or wine or gin or used any cocaine. Vodka & pot definitely back in the day ['60's] thanks to military service in Nam. Pot was unheard of when I was in high school, beer was the big thing and I hated the taste and smell of it and thus never drank any. .