​”More Secret Remedies: What They Cost and What They Contain,” published in 1912 by the British Medical Association, serves as a revealing exposé of the patent medicine industry of the early 20th century. This work continues the investigative efforts begun in the earlier volume, “Secret Remedies,” by meticulously analyzing a variety of proprietary medicines. Through chemical analysis and cost assessment, the book uncovers the actual ingredients of these remedies, often highlighting the stark contrast between their marketed claims and their true compositions. The primary aim is to inform the public about the realities of these products, many of which were sold at high prices despite containing inexpensive and sometimes ineffective components.​

The book details numerous case studies, each focusing on a specific remedy. For instance, it examines a catarrh cure that was marketed as a reliable and effective preparation for permanent and radical cure of the disease. However, analysis revealed that it primarily contained phenol (carbolic acid), sodium chloride (common salt), and water, with the estimated cost of ingredients being a mere fraction of a penny. Another example includes a cough syrup that, despite being labeled as containing laudanum and chloroform, was found to have negligible amounts of these substances. Instead, it mainly consisted of treacle, glucose, and cane sugar, with small quantities of morphine and ipecacuanha alkaloids. These findings underscore the deceptive marketing practices prevalent at the time, where products were often sold at exorbitant prices despite containing cheap and common ingredients.​

The book also delves into remedies for more serious conditions. A notable example is a preparation claimed to be a cure for consumption, which was found to contain potassium iodide, sugars, and a small amount of vegetable extract, with no detectable amounts of the advertised herbal ingredients. Similarly, a weight-loss remedy was analyzed and found to contain dried thyroid gland, phenolphthalein, sodium chloride, and powdered seaweed, again highlighting the disparity between the marketed claims and the actual contents. These analyses not only reveal the ineffectiveness of such remedies but also raise concerns about potential health risks associated with their undisclosed ingredients.​

Throughout the book, the British Medical Association emphasizes the importance of transparency and consumer protection. By exposing the true nature of these secret remedies, the book advocates for stricter regulations and informed decision-making by consumers. It serves as a historical document that sheds light on the practices of the patent medicine industry and the need for ongoing vigilance to ensure the safety and efficacy of medicinal products. The work remains a testament to the importance of scientific analysis and public awareness in the realm of healthcare.