The following comic book Mickey Mouse and the Medicine Man was released by Disney in 1951. In the strip, Mickey and Goofy discover a new medicine called ‘Peppo’ that represents amphetamine (speed). Their enthusiasm for the chemical pick-me-up leads them to become salesman for the product in Africa:
During the 1950’s, a number of stimulant and sedative drugs were widely used and were promoted in the mainstream media. At the time, many amphetamines were available over the counter without a prescription, including Benzedrine.
Images via Mind Hacks: Mickey’s amphetamine adventure and Erowid: Mickey Mouse on Speed.
And if you enjoyed seeing Mickey Mouse deal drugs, check out our posts on interesting facts about the world and the craziest ways drugs are smuggled!