For folks with severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine autoinjector, such as the familiar brand EpiPen, can be as go-to as car keys or a cell phone. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction triggered by allergens such as a bee sting or peanuts. In the case of anaphylaxis, an epinephrine injection can be the difference between life or death. Since being approved by the FDA in 1987, epinephrine autoinjectors have saved countless lives.

This adrenaline vaporizer functioned like a manual and decidedly less-effective version of an epinephrine autoinjector in the first half of the 20th century. This simple device was used to turn the adrenaline solution into a fine mist for inhaling by squeezing the rubber bulb, pumping a blast of air to propel a small amount of the solution through the mouthpiece after removing the cork.

Maker: Parke Davis & Co.; Detroit, Michigan
Date of Creation: circa 1900-1950