The drugstore filled the doctor's prescriptions. Drugstores also carried patent medicines, tonics, linaments, ointments, first-aid suppies, health and beauty products. Some drugstores sold veterinary supplies (for treating animals), photographic equipment (cameras and film) and stationery (paper and writing materials). Most of the goods were displayed in glass cases.

The druggist had a supply of different types of pills and also had to mix potions for medicines. To make pills the druggist used a mortar and pestle, scales, various containers for mixing and special equipment needed to make pills.