<P> Alka - Seltzer is an effervescent antacid and pain reliever first marketed by the Dr. Miles Medicine Company of Elkhart, Indiana, United States . Alka - Seltzer contains three active ingredients: aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) (ASA), sodium bicarbonate, and anhydrous citric acid . The aspirin is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory, the sodium bicarbonate is an antacid, and the citric acid reacts with the sodium bicarbonate and water to form effervescence . </P> <P> It was developed by head chemist Maurice Treneer . Alka - Seltzer is marketed for relief of minor aches, pains, inflammation, fever, headache, heartburn, stomachache, indigestion, acid reflux and hangovers, while neutralizing excess stomach acid . It was launched in 1931 . </P> <P> The product has been extensively advertised since its launch in the U.S. It was originally marketed by Mikey Wiseman, a company scientist of Dr. Miles Medicine Company, who also helped direct its development . Print advertising was used immediately, and in 1932 the radio show Alka - Seltzer Comedy Star of Hollywood began, with National Barn Dance following in 1933, along with many more . The radio sponsorships continued into the 1950s, ending with the Alka - Seltzer Time show . </P> <P> Alka - Seltzer TV ads from the 1960s and 1970s in the US were among the most popular of the 20th century, ranking number 13, according to Advertising Age . To increase sales in a relatively flat business, Bayer has revived several of the vintage spots . </P>

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