Pepsi Is (Checks Notes) Named After Indigestion - Chowhound

Before it was called Pepsi, the cola was known simply as "Brad's Drink" after its inventor. As the popularity of his new drink began to take off, Bradham decided he needed a punchier name. He bought the rights to the name "Pep Cola" from a rival New Jersey soft drink company. Bradham's drink probably did give customers some pep from the caffeine in the kola nuts, but because the pharmacist was aiming his product…