Part 78 (2/2)

_Dose_, from five minims to two drachms.

756. Diaph.o.r.etics.

Diaph.o.r.etics are medicines given to increase the secretion from the skin by sweating. They comprise acetate of ammonia, calomel, antimony, opium, camphor, sarsaparilla.

757. Solution of Acetate of Ammonia

Solution of Acetate of Ammonia is a most useful diaph.o.r.etic.

It is _used externally_ as a discutient, as a lotion to inflamed milk-b.r.e.a.s.t.s, as an eye-wash, and a lotion in scald head.

It is given _internally_ to promote perspiration in febrile diseases, which it does most effectually, especially when combined with camphor mixture. This is the article so frequently met with in prescriptions, and called spirits of mindercrus.

_Dose_, from a half to one and a half ounces every three or four hours.

758. Antimony.--_Tartar emetic_

_Tartar emetic_ is diaph.o.r.etic, emetic, expectorant, alterative, and rubefacient.

It is _used externally_ as an irritant in white swellings and deep-seated inflammations, in the form of an ointment.

It is given _internally_ in pleurisy, bilious fevers, and many other diseases, but its exhibition requires the skill of a medical man, to watch its effects.

_Dose_, from one-sixth of a grain to four grains.

_Caution_.--It is a _poison_, and therefore requires great care in its administration.

759. Antimonial Powder

Antimonial Powder is a diaph.o.r.etic, emetic, and alterative.

It is given _internally_, in febrile diseases, to produce determination to the skin, and is useful in rheumatism, when combined with opium or calomel.

_Dose_, from three to ten grains every four hours, taking plenty of warm fluids between each dose.

760. Sarsiparilla

Sarsiparilla is diaph.o.r.etic, alterative, diuretic, and tonic.

It is given _internally_ in cutaneous diseases, old-standing rheumatism, scrofula, and debility.

_Dose_, of the _decoction_, from four to eight ounces; of the _compound decoction_, from four to eight ounces; of the _extract_, from five grains to one drachm.

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