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Rare Pharmaceutical History – 1978 Stadol (Butorphanol Tartrate) Promotional "Want Book"
For your consideration is a pristine, New Old Stock (NOS) pharmaceutical promotional notebook (Want Book) issued by Bristol Laboratories. This item was a key part of the marketing campaign for the initial launch of Stadol IM/IV, a synthetic opioid analgesic.
Historical Significance & Dating
The Date Code: The back cover features the printer’s identification code: "BL-974 10/78". While I cannot definitively certify the exact day of manufacture, this specific code (October 1978) is characteristic of Bristol Labs' 1970s marketing materials, aligning with the drug's FDA approval in August of that year.
"New" Branding: The front cover prominently displays the word "new" above the Stadol logo, indicating this is an original piece from the product's debut launch.
Period Marketing Claims: Includes the historically notable claim of "Low Physical-Dependence Liability"—offering a unique look into late-70s medical marketing.
Condition: New Old Stock
Unused: This notebook is in exceptional vintage condition.
Interior: All pages are blank, crisp, and clean. Every page features the Stadol logo at the footer.
Binding: Original metal spiral binding is tight and free of rust or bends.
Cover: Colors are bright and saturated. Minimal shelf wear consistent with age (please see photos for exact detail).
Pricing & Offers
I recognize that pricing for specialized medical ephemera can be subjective, as unique historical pieces are often difficult to value. While the asking price reflects the launch-year rarity and the controversial nature of the marketing claims, I am open to reasonable offers. If you are a collector who values this specific piece of history, please feel free to reach out.
Product Details
Manufacturer: Bristol Laboratories (Div. of Bristol-Myers Company)
Origin: Syracuse, N.Y.
Format: Spiral-bound "Want Book" (Inventory reminder notebook for pharmacists)
Shipping: This item will be shipped flat with heavy cardboard reinforcement to ensure it maintains its collector-grade condition during transit.
Sold as a historical paper collectible only. No medication is included.
