Pepsi Cola was originally called "Brad's Drink"

It was renamed Pepsi-Cola in 1898 - "Pepsi" because it was advertised as a remedy for dyspepsia (indigestion), and "Cola" in reference to the cola flavour. Some have also suggested that "Pepsi" might be a reference to the digestive enzyme pepsin, but pepsin itself was never used as an ingredient in Pepsi-Cola. In 1961, the name was shortened to Pepsi.

The original recipe also contained sugar and vanilla. Bradham wanted to create a drink that was appealing, stimulated digestion and gave energy.

During the Great Depression, Pepsi gained popularity after a 12-ounce (355 ml) bottle was introduced in 1934. Before that, Pepsi and Coca-Cola sold their drinks in 6.5-ounce (192 ml) portions for about $0.05 per bottle. In a time of economic crisis, the campaign succeeded in improving Pepsi's status. From 1936 to 1938, Pepsi-Cola's profits doubled.
In this way, Pepsi's triumphal march began.