3 years old and upward, full dose.From 11⁄2years old to 3 years,1⁄2dose.From 9 to 18 months old,1⁄4dose.From 41⁄2to 9 months old,1⁄8dose.From 1 to 41⁄2months old,1⁄16dose.
3 years old and upward, full dose.From 11⁄2years old to 3 years,1⁄2dose.From 9 to 18 months old,1⁄4dose.From 41⁄2to 9 months old,1⁄8dose.From 1 to 41⁄2months old,1⁄16dose.
CATTLE.
2 years old and upward, full dose.From 1 to 2 years old,1⁄2dose.From1⁄2to 1 year,1⁄4dose.From 3 to 6 months,1⁄8dose.From 1 to 3 months,1⁄16dose.
2 years old and upward, full dose.From 1 to 2 years old,1⁄2dose.From1⁄2to 1 year,1⁄4dose.From 3 to 6 months,1⁄8dose.From 1 to 3 months,1⁄16dose.
SHEEP.
2 years old and upward, full dose.From 1 to 2 years old,1⁄2dose.From1⁄2to 1 year,1⁄4dose.From 3 to 6 months,1⁄8dose.From 1 to 3 months,1⁄16dose.
2 years old and upward, full dose.From 1 to 2 years old,1⁄2dose.From1⁄2to 1 year,1⁄4dose.From 3 to 6 months,1⁄8dose.From 1 to 3 months,1⁄16dose.
PIGS.
11⁄2years and upward, full dose.From 9 to 18 months old,1⁄2dose.From 41⁄2to 9 months,1⁄4dose.From 21⁄2to 41⁄4months,1⁄8dose.From 1 to 21⁄2months,1⁄16dose.
11⁄2years and upward, full dose.From 9 to 18 months old,1⁄2dose.From 41⁄2to 9 months,1⁄4dose.From 21⁄2to 41⁄4months,1⁄8dose.From 1 to 21⁄2months,1⁄16dose.
DOGS.
From1⁄2to 1 year old, full dose.From 3 to 6 months,1⁄2dose.From 11⁄2to 3 months,1⁄4dose.From 20 to 45 days,1⁄8dose.From 10 to 20 days,1⁄16dose.
From1⁄2to 1 year old, full dose.From 3 to 6 months,1⁄2dose.From 11⁄2to 3 months,1⁄4dose.From 20 to 45 days,1⁄8dose.From 10 to 20 days,1⁄16dose.
The prescription should be as brief and simple as possible. It should be explicit and clearly written. It may be expressed either in Latin or in English. The manner in which the medicine is to be used should be specified. Important instructions as to the rule, systematic regulations or diet of the patient are sometimes necessary.
Prescriptions usually contain two or more of the following four representative constituents: (1) Thebasisor active ingredients. The practice of conjoining several active medicines has wisely been abandoned. Occasionally, however, it may be advantageous to give together two medicines producing their effects in somewhat different ways. Thus, spasms of the bowels are more often effectually controlled by the conjunction of a stimulant like ether and an anodyne like opium than by either given alone. Pain which is not alleviated by either morphine or atropine is sometimes abated by giving them together. (2) Theadjuvantis introduced in order to increase, moderate or modify the action of the basis. Frequently its chief object is to insure solubility and ready absorption. (3) Acorrectiveis occasionally required to temper the effects of the basis. Thus a small dose of opium is prescribed with oil or other laxative in cases of diarrhoea; ginger is generally added tothe aloetic mass to prevent its griping. (4) Thevehiclegenerally consists of some comparatively inert substance, added to facilitate administration, such as the treacle, linseed meal or licorice powder used as an excipient for boluses and pills, the benzoated lard or vaseline used for making ointments, and the water given in drenches.
Example:
In the above prescription aloes is the basis; calomel as an adjuvant, ginger as a corrective, molasses as an excipient.
A prescription is composed of several parts, which may be considered as follows:
PRESCRIPTION WRITING.
Words, phrases and abbreviations commonly used in prescription writing.
Derivation.—Made by evaporation and crystallization of a solution obtained by passing steam issuing from rocks in volcanic regions of Italy, through water; or by the action of hydrochloric or sulphuric acids upon borax. Recovered by filtration and recrystallization.
Properties.—Transparent colorless scales, of a somewhat pearly luster, six-sided tricline crystals, or a light white, very fine powder, slightly unctuous to the touch; odorless, having a faintly bitterish taste, and permanent in air. Soluble in water, alcohol, glycerine, etc.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 2 to 4 drs.; foals and calves, 20 to 30 grs.; sheep and pigs, 30 to 40 grs.; dogs, 5 to 20 grs.
Composed of boric acid, 310 parts; glycerin to make 1,000; prepared by heat (303° F.).
Actions.—Boric acid is a non-volatile, non-irritating antiseptic, deodorant and astringent, it arrests fermentation of minute organisms, free of irritating effects in solution, when applied to wounds; it lessens suppuration, and is as effective as carbolic acid; can be used in any strength from the pure powder or saturated solution to the mildest form.
Uses.—Boric acid is indicated for all purposes for which an antiseptic is used; it is used in diarrhoea in foals, calves and dogs, combined with other drugs; it has a slightly astringent action of itself; it is excreted in the urine, consequently would exert its influence on the bladder in cystitis, cystic catarrh; 1 part in 800 prevents the development of anthrax-bacilli; useful in skin diseases, also used in keratitis and catarrhal and purulent conjunctivitis, six to ten grains to the ounce, with atropine or cocaine when very painful. Useful in distemperof dogs where the bowels are affected, as an antiseptic. Boric acid is preferred to carbolic acid as an antiseptic for dogs. On account of the paralyzing effect of carbolic acid on the nerves, it hinders the healing of wounds to a certain extent, while the boracic acid does not.
Boric acid may be applied pure to wounds and sores or mixed with other suitable drugs as a dusting powder. Equal parts of boric acid and zinc oxide make a cheap and effective healing powder; to an itching wound the addition of an equal quantity of acetanilide increases its value. A saturated solution (four per cent) is useful as a vaginal and uterine douche and to flush the bladder in cystitis.
Derivation.—A liquid consisting of several different constituents of coal tar, particularly creosol and phenol, obtained by fractional distillation.
Properties.—A nearly colorless, or reddish-brown liquid of a strong disagreeable and creosote-like odor, and gradually turning darker on exposure to the air and light. Soluble in fifteen parts of water.
Derivation.—Obtained from crude carbolic acid by agitation with caustic soda, heating to 338° F., and adding hydrochloric acid. Then by agitation with sodium chloride, digestion with calcium chloride, and distillation at a temperature between 336° F. and 374° F. and finally by crystallization.
Properties.—Phenol in its pure state is a solid at ordinary temperatures, crystallizing in minute plates or long rhomboidal needles, white or colorless, of a peculiar odor recalling that of creosote, and an acrid burning taste. It is likely to be colored pinkish or brown under the influence of light and air. Soluble in about19.6 parts of water, and very soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform, glycerin, fixed and volatile oils.
Actions.—Phenol in large and undiluted doses is an irritant and narcotic poison; it is used as an antiseptic, parasiticide, antiferment and sometimes used as a local anaesthetic or anodyne in a 2 to 5 per cent solution; also as a caustic, but should not be used as a caustic as a burn from it heals very slowly.
Uses.—Internally as a gastric sedative in small doses for vomiting in dogs; is administered in various contagious and infectious diseases with the view of preventing or arresting the development of micro-organisms; it coagulates albumen, is not nearly so active as bichloride of mercury; 1 part to 500 parts of water prevents the growth of anthrax and other bacilli. Full doses produce gastro-enteritis, and collapse, which may end fatally; it is a muscular and nerve paralyzer, both internally and externally, it kills by paralyzing the muscles of respiration and the heart. It is chiefly eliminated from the system by the kidneys, giving the urine a brownish color.
In Surgery.—A three to five per cent solution is used for washing out wounds, a two to three per cent for hands, and for itching of the skin, carbolic acid three or four drachms, glycerine two ounces to one pint of water. Do not use over large surface on dogs and not at all on cats.
Phenol treatment for Tetanus, which has given very good results and I would recommend one drachm in three ounces of water, injected hypodermically in the region of neck and shoulder every two or three hours until twelve injections were given and less frequently thereafter.
Doses.—Of the phenol: Horses and cattle, 10 to 40 grs.; sheep and pigs, 5 to 10 grs.; dogs,1⁄2to 1 gr., well diluted.
Toxicology.—Dogs and cats are especially susceptible to the action of carbolic acid, therefore great caremust be exercised when washing, especially cats, with any preparation containing carbolic acid. Disinfecting and deodorizing cat’s quarters with any preparation containing carbolic acid makes them sick.
Antidote.—Sulphates of soda or magnesia. Atropine sulphate hypodermically is a very valuable antidote. Alcohol and vinegar have been used with good results, both internally and externally.
An organic acid, existing naturally in combination in various plants, but largely prepared synthetically from carbolic acid.
Derivation.—Made by passing carbonic dioxide through sodium carbolate at a temperature of 428° F. (220° C.). 2 NaC6H5O (sodium carbolate) + CO2= Na2C7H4O3(sodium salicylate) + C6H6O (phenol). Sodium salicylate is treated with hydrochloric acid when salicylic acid is precipitated.
Properties.—Light, fine, white, needle-shaped crystals, odorless, having a sweetish, afterwards acrid taste; permanent in air. Soluble in alcohol, ether and hot water; borax increases its solubility.
Dose.—Horses, 2 to 6 drs.; cattle,1⁄2to 1 oz.; sheep, 1 to 2 drs.; pigs, 30 to 40 grs.; dogs, 5 to 20 grs.; should be given well diluted; large doses are recommended for fevers, but smaller doses more often repeated in rheumatism.
Derivation.—Made by the action of salicylic acid on sodium carbonate. The solution is filtered and heated to expel carbon dioxide.
Properties.—A white amorphous or crystalline powder or scales; odorless and having a sweetish, saline taste. Permanent in air. Soluble in water, alcohol and glycerine.
Dose.—Same as for salicylic acid.
Derivation.—Made by heating salicylic and carbolic acids with phosphorous pentachloride.
Properties.—A white crystalline powder; odorless, or having a faintly aromatic odor, and almost tasteless. Permanent in air. Insoluble in water, soluble in ten parts of alcohol and readily soluble in chloroform.
Dose.—Same as for salicylic acid.
Actions.—Salicylic acid, sodium salicylate and phenyl salicylate are powerful antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, diaphoretic, cardiac depressant, antiferment and antipyretic. Salicylic acid is in addition irritant and astringent, continued in large doses is apt to derange digestion; best to be administered on a full stomach.
Uses.—For acute rheumatism, influenza, strangles and purpura where there is much sloughing; also as a surgical wash, salicylic acid one part, borax one part to thirty or forty parts of water. Salicylic acid is a more powerful antiseptic than carbolic acid. Salicylic of soda is freely antiseptic. Salicylic acid is highly recommended in intestinal flatulence, given in two drachm doses with one ounce of aromatic spirits of ammonia. In gastric-flatulence give two drachms in capsule, repeat in half hour if necessary.
Derivation.—Aconite is obtained from the root of aconitum napellus, which grows in Northwestern North America, Europe and Asia in mountainous regions, and cultivated in the United States for its beautiful flowers.
Properties.—The fresh leaves have a faint narcotic odor, most sensible when they are rubbed. Their taste is at first bitterish and herbaceous, afterwards burning and acrid, with a feeling of numbness and tingling on the inside of the lips, tongue and fauces, which is very durable, lasting sometimes many hours. When long chewed they inflame the tongue. The dried leaves havea similar taste, but the acrid impression commences later. Their sensible properties and medical activity are impaired by long keeping. They should be of a green color, and free from mustiness. The root has a feeble earthy odor. Though sweetish at first, it has afterwards the same effect as the leaves upon the mouth and fauces. It shrinks much in drying and becomes darker, but does not lose its acrimony. Those parcels, whether of leaves or roots, should always be rejected which are destitute of this property. Aconite root is officially described as being “slenderly conical, 4 to 10 cm. long, 10 to 20 mm. thick at the crown; occasionally split; longitudinally wrinkled; dark brown and marked with coarse whitish root-scars; fracture short, horny or mealy; internally whitish or light brown; the cambium zone irregular and 5 to 7-angled; odor very slight; taste sweetish, soon becoming acrid and developing a tingling sensation, followed by numbness.”
Preparations of the leaves are not official in the U. S. P. The root is five times stronger than the leaves.
Constituents.—The alkaloid representing the action of the drug is aconitine, which is precipitated by ammonia from an aqueous solution of an alcoholic extract of the root of various species. It is a colorless, crystalline or amorphous, gray powder, almost insoluble in water, and soluble in 22 parts of alcohol, in 44 parts of ether and 1 part of chloroform. Its salts are soluble in water. Aconitine or its solutions, unless very dilute, are too poisonous to be tasted.
Commercial preparations vary in purity and strength, and since it is extremely poisonous its internal administration is undesirable. Pseudo-aconitine, aconitine and other alkaloids in combination with aconitic acid have been obtained from aconite, but their identity and chemistry are uncertain.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 3 to 20 grs.; sheep and pigs, 1 to 3 grs.; dogs,1⁄10to1⁄11gr.
Made by maceration and percolation with alcohol and water and evaporation. Assayed so that each 100 c. c. contains 0.4 gm. aconitine.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 5 to 20 m.; sheep and pigs. 2 to 5 m.; dogs,1⁄10to 1 m.
Made by maceration and percolation of aconite, 100; with alcohol and water to make 1000.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 20 m. to 1 dr.; sheep and pigs, 10 to 20 m.; dogs, 2 to 10 m.
Fleming’s Tincture (non-official) (79 per cent).
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 8 to 20 m.; dogs,1⁄2to 2 m.
Not used to any extent in veterinary practice; is very unreliable and varying in strength. Aconitine often contains a considerable proportion of aconite and benzaconine, and so varies in activity, which is a great objection to the use of one of the most powerful drugs known.
Dose.—Horses and cattle,1⁄30to1⁄5gr.; dogs,1⁄200to1⁄100gr. subcutaneously.
Actions of aconite, its preparations and derivative are anodynes and sedatives, acting specially on the peripheral endings of the sensory nerves, on the heart and on respiration. Aconite kills by respiratory arrest.
Its physiological actions as a cardiac and respiratory sedative renders it a febrifuge; it is also diaphoretic and diuretic. It is prescribed in acute febrile conditions, and in the earlier stages of acute local inflammation. It is used topically to relieve pain.
General Actions.—Locally applied, in virtue of its action on sensory nerves, aconite produces first irritation, tingling and twitching and subsequently numbness and anesthesia. The tincture of aconite is rapidlyabsorbed and quickly passed into the tissues, as is shown by the blood of a poisoned dog five minutes after the drug has been administered, being transferred into the veins of another dog without producing the physiological action of the poison.
Toxic Effects.—One and one-half drachm of the tincture (equal to about one drachm of aconite root) is given as the minimum fatal dose for the horse, one-half drachm will occasionally cause very serious symptoms and where an idiosyncrasy exists as little as fifteen minims will cause toxic symptoms.
It causes great muscular weakness, dimness of sight; pupil at first may be dilated or contracted, but as the end approaches remains dilated; shallow irregular and labored respiration, a slow and small pulse, becoming rapid and imperceptible near the end. Gulping, frothy saliva, flatulence, belching, retching, nausea, etc. There is often a peculiar clicking sound made from the constant attempts at swallowing.
Coldness of surface, clammy sweat, anxious countenance, extreme weakness of the extremities, lowering of temperature 2 to 3 degrees, abolishment of sensation, reflexes and motility and finally death from paralysis of the heart and respiration, with or without convulsions, consciousness being preserved until near the end, when carbon dioxide narcosis sets in.
Uses.—It antagonizes the fever process, when properly used is a most valuable drug; it is indicated in all affections, characterized by high resisting pulse, dry, hot skin and elevated body temperature; is useful in acute throat affections as laryngitis, pharyngitis and perotiditis, in small doses often repeated. Indicated in acute inflammation of the organs of respiration. For pleurisy and perotiditis, at the outset, give aconite with opium. Aconite is indicated in simple fevers or in puerperal fever, inflammation of the brain; in acute or inflammatory rheumatism, in acute local inflammation, as arthritis or inflammation resulting from bruises, sprains, etc.
In lymphangitis, laminitis and enteritis, if called in first stages of enteritis give 20 ms. of aconite and repeat with 10 or 15 ms. every hour and between times gives fluid extract of belladonna 15 to 20 ms. every hour and externally woolen blankets wrung out of hot water and wrapped around the body.
In mammitis is also useful in large doses, combined with phytolacca; in spasmodic colic brought on by drinking cold water, give 30 to 60 ms. of the tincture of aconite with other colic mixture; in congestion of the bowels or liver, or in congestion of any part, small repeated doses are better than large ones. It is also advantageously used in lung disorders.
A liquid composed of about 96 per cent, by weight, of absolute ether or ethyl oxide, and about 4 per cent of alcohol containing a little water.
Derivation.—Prepared by distillation of alcohol with sulphuric acid. There are two steps in the production of ether; sulphorvinic acid and water are formed in the first step. Sulphorvinic acid is then further acted upon by alcohol. The distillate is freed from water by agitation with calcium oxide and chloride and subjected to redistillation.
Properties.—A transparent, colorless, mobile liquid, having a characteristic odor and a burning and sweetish taste. Ether is highly volatile and inflammable; its vapor, when mixed with air and ignited, explodes violently. Miscible in all proportions with alcohol, chloroform, benzine, benzol, fixed and volatile oils. Ether is a solvent for fats, oils, alkaloids, resins, gutta percha and guncotton. Upon evaporation ether should have no residue. Ether vapor is heavier than air and consequently etherization should never be done above a light or fire.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 1 to 2 ozs.; sheep and pigs, 2 to 4 drs.; dogs, 10 ms. to 1 dr.
As an anaesthetic, horses and cattle require from 4 to 16 ozs. Smaller animals from 4 drs. to 4 ozs. Chloroformis usually prescribed for large animals and ether for smaller animals. Ether never paralyzes a healthy heart, while chloroform sometimes does. For anaesthetic purposes see anesthesia.
Composed of ether, 325 parts, alcohol to make 1000.
Dose.—Same as ether.
Composed of ether, 325 parts; alcohol, 650 parts; ethereal oil, 25 parts.
Dose.—Same as for ether.
Actions.—Ether is anodyne, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, anthelmintic; a cardiac, respiratory and cerebral stimulant, an anesthetic and a narcotic poison; one of the best and quickest acting, diffusible, general stimulants, acting on the heart reflexly from the stomach. It is a powerful secretory stimulant, acting especially on the secretions of the stomach, salivary glands and pancreas. On the cerebrum and the motor and sensory nerves, its actions are similar to that of alcohol, but more prompt and less protracted; it is eliminated quickly, chiefly by the lungs.
When inhaled, it first causes irritation of the fauces, a sense of strangulation and cough, then a stage of excitement in which the visible mucous membranes are flushed and the respiration and pulse quickened; a convulsive stage generally follows, with rigid muscles and respiration stertorous; this subsides and complete insensibility is established, the muscles being relaxed and the reflexes abolished; in fact all of the functions of the body are suspended, except respiration and circulation.
If the inhalation be continued these too become paralyzed, death usually resulting from slow paralysis of respiration (chloroform paralyzes quickly); the heart pulsating long after breathing has ceased. Atropinehypodermically is the best antagonist to the toxic effects of ether, also artificial respiration and injections of brandy.
Uses of Ether.—When mixed with alcohol, as the spirit, ether mixes readily with water. It is excellent in indigestion with flatulence; it checks gastric fermentation, expels the gas and overcomes irregular and violent gastro-intestinal movements; hence, is also very good in spasmodic colic. In spasmodic colic, best to combine with cannabis indica or belladonna. When used as a vermifuge it should be followed by a purge. Used diluted one to ten to dislodge worms in the rectum. A most reliable remedy for collapse. Ether and alcohol are indicated in parturient paresis, ether with aqua ammonia may be used intravenously when the cow is unable to swallow. Sulphuric ether and alcohol or whisky are also good in parturient eclampsia of bitches, though aromatic spirit of ammonia is better; for chills, spirit of nitrous ether; also useful in convalescence from debilitating disease. Ether is a very good remedy in Thumps. Ether may be used for local anesthesia, applied as a spray, from an atomizer, about one ounce, usually being enough for the painless opening of abscesses or fistulae, but cocaine is better in our patients.As an anestheticit should be used in preference to chloroform, for the smaller and young animals, especially dogs, which are easily killed by chloroform. Ether is less prompt in action but much safer than chloroform, as it never paralyzes a healthy heart; it should be inhaled in as concentrated a form as possible, very little air being allowed, so it will exert its effects quickly, in the dog; a light or fire of any kind should not be allowed near, as ether is very inflammable and its vapor explosive. Always have a bottle of aqua ammonia fort. at hand as a restorer.
Alcohol is derived directly from fruit sugar, and indirectly from starch. The grains, as wheat, rye, corn; and potatoes, supply starch most economically. Thestarch in these substances is converted into glucose by heating with very dilute sulphuric acid, or by fermentation with malt. Glucose is further acted upon by yeast containing the Torula cerevisiae, which converts 15 per cent of glucose into alcohol and carbonic dioxide. The weak alcohol resulting is subjected to repeated distillation until sufficiently pure and concentrated. In the natural fermentation of fruit sugar in grape juice, during the formation of wine, the amount of alcohol is self-limited to 15, rarely 20 per cent, since the ferment is killed by a larger amount of alcohol than this.
Derivation.—The official alcohol is derived from rectified spirits, by maceration, first with anhydrous potassium carbonate, then freshly fused calcium chloride, and finally by distillation.
Properties.—A liquid composed of about 92.3 per cent, by weight, or 94.9 per cent, by volume, of ethyl alcohol (C2H5OH) and about 7.7 per cent, by weight, of water (U. S. P.). A transparent, colorless, mobile and volatile liquid, of a characteristic rather agreeable odor and a burning taste. Specific gravity about .816 at 15.6° C. (60° F.). Miscible with water in all proportions and without any trace of cloudiness. Also miscible with ether chloroform. It is readily volatile at low temperature, and boils at 78° C. (172.4° F.). It is inflammable and burns with a blue flame.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 1 to 3 oz.; sheep and pigs, 2 to 4 dr.; dogs, 1 to 2 dr. Diluted four to six times its bulk of water.
Ethyl alcohol, containing not more than one per cent, by weight, of water.
Derivation.—Percolation of the purest alcohol through quicklime, out of contact with the air, and redistillation in vacuo.
Properties.—Transparent, colorless, mobile and volatile liquid, of a characteristic rather agreeable odorand a burning taste. Very hydroscopic. Specific gravity not higher than 0.797 at 15.6° C. (60° F.).
Derivation.—An alcoholic liquid obtained by the distillation of the mash of fermented grain (usually of mixtures of corn, wheat and rye) and at least four years old.
Properties.—An amber-colored liquid having a distinctive odor and taste, and a slightly acid reaction. Its specific gravity should not be more than 0.945, nor less than 0.924, corresponding, approximately, to an alcoholic strength of 37 to 47.5 per cent, by weight, or 44 to 55 per cent, by volume. Contains no more than traces of fusel oil. The alcoholic liquors owe their flavor to bouquet to ethers which are only developed in course of time. The amylic alcohol, or fusel oil, in whisky is therefore converted into ethers, which give the characteristic flavor to whisky.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 2 to 4 oz.; sheep and swine, 1 to 2 oz.; dogs, 1 to 4 dr., diluted three to four times its bulk in water.
Derivation.—An alcoholic liquid obtained by the distillation of the fermented unmodified juice of fresh grapes, and at least four years old.
Properties.—A pale amber-colored liquid, having a distinctive odor and taste and a slightly acid reaction. Its specific gravity should not be more than 0.941, nor less than 0.925 at 15.6° C. (60° F.), corresponding, approximately, to an alcoholic strength of 39 to 47 per cent, by weight, or 46 to 55 per cent, by volume, of absolute alcohol.
Dose.—Same as that for whisky.
Derivation.—Oil of juniper, 8; oil of caraway, 1; oil of fennel, 1; alcohol, 1,400; water to make 2,000.
Compound spirit of juniper is similar to gin in its therapeutic action. Contains about 15 per cent more alcohol. Gin is made by distillation of fermented malt and juniper berries. Gin differs from the other alcoholic preparations therapeutically in being more diuretic.
Dose.—Same as that for whisky.
Rum is made from a fermented solution of molasses by distillation. It contains, by weight, from 40 to 50 per cent of absolute alcohol. Rum does not differ physiologically from alcohol. There is no authoritative Latin name for rum.
Dose.—Same as that for whisky.
Derivation.—An alcoholic liquid made by fermenting the juice of fresh grapes, the fruit of Vitis vinifera, free from seeds, stems and skins.
Properties.—A pale amber or straw-colored liquid, having a pleasant odor, free from yeastiness and a fruity, agreeable, slightly spirituous taste, without excessive sweetness or acidity. The Pharmacopoeia (1890) directs that the wine should contain from 7 to 12 per cent, by weight, of absolute alcohol. California Hock and Reisling, Ohio Catawba, Sherry, Muscatel, Madeira or the stronger wines of the Rhine, Mediterranean and Hungary come within the pharmacopoeial limits. Wines containing more than 14 per cent of alcohol are usually fortified, i. e., have alcohol or brandy added to them, and much imported Sherry and Madeira contain 15 to 20 per cent, by weight, of absolute alcohol.
Dose.—Same as that for whisky.
Derivation.—An alcoholic liquid made by fermenting the juice of fresh colored grapes, the fruit of Vitis vinifera, in presence of their skins.
Properties.—A deep red liquid, having a pleasant odor, free from yeastiness, and a fruity moderately astringent, pleasant and slightly acidulous taste, without excessive sweetness or acidity. Should contain not less than 7 nor more than 12 per cent, by weight, of alcohol. Native Claret, Burgundy, Bordeaux and Hungarian wines may be included within the pharmacopoeial limits of vinum rubrum. Port (vinum portense) is fortified with brandy during fermentation, and contains 15 to 25 per cent, by weight, of absolute alcohol. Port is astringent from tannic acid in the grapes, skin and stalks, or the astringency may be due to logwood. Red wines are said to be rough, contain tannic acid and therefore are astringents. Dry wines are those which contain little sugar. The wines develop ethers with age and these improve their flavor and action.
Champagne contains about 10 per cent of absolute alcohol and carbonic acid gas, which acts as a local sedative upon the stomach. Ale, stout and beers contain from 4 to 8 per cent of alcohol, together with bitters and malt extracts.
Cider contains 5 to 9 per cent of absolute alcohol. Imported sherry (B. P.) contains 15 to 20 per cent of absolute alcohol.
Alcohol is the solvent most commonly employed in pharmacy, dissolving alkaloids, resins, volatile oils, balsams, oleo-resins, tannin, sugar, some fats and fixed oils.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 3 to 6 oz.; sheep and pigs, 1 to 3 oz.; dogs, 2 dr. to 1 oz.
Actions.—Alcohol is a cerebral excitant and finally becomes a depressant and a narcotic poison.
It is anesthetic, antiseptic, antiparasitic, rubefacient (if confined), mild astringent, coagulate albumen; a local refrigerant by virtue of its rapid evaporation, unless confined by bandage, oiled silk, etc., when it is absorbed by the tissues and causes a sensation of warmth.
In medical doses it is a powerful general stimulant; it is very diffusible, and is partly oxidized by the organism, and partly excreted; thus alcohol acts as a food.
Small doses relax the blood vessels, stimulate the gastric glands, promote appetite and digestion; lessen the elimination of waste products, by preventing rapid tissue waste; causes a feeling of warmth, and temporarily, though slightly, raises the body temperature. It stimulates the heart and increases the functional activity of all organs, especially the kidneys and skin.
Large or too long continued doses derange the appetite and digestion, congest or inflame the stomach and liver. Eight ounces of alcohol killed a horse. Alcohol is poisonous and should be used with caution.
Uses.—Are numerous, used principally as a stimulant, either in one large dose, 2 to 3 ounces of alcohol, or better, in small repeated doses, 1 ounce every 1, 2 or 3 hours, can be conjoined with other stimulants such as sulphuric ether, aromatic spirits of ammonia, digitalis, etc.
It is used in anesthetic mixtures, such as alcohol, ether and chloroform, combined in different proportions; in snake bites it is administered in very large doses.
In blood poisoning alcohol is a most potent drug, sustaining the heart, lowering the temperature and acting as a germicide. Alcohol makes an excellent dressing for wounds; applied locally to threatened bed-sores, frequently prevents their formation. It is useful in colds at their outset, or in a chill to restore the balance of the circulation and prevent or overcome internal congestion by relaxing the blood vessels of the periphery.
All alcoholic liquors are useful in debilitating diseases, such as influenza, in two or three ounce doses repeated every three or four hours. One-half to one drachm of quinine to one ounce of alcohol, for influenza or febrile diseases in general, excepting brain and spinal disease; useful in convalescence. In colic alcohol can be used with a great degree of success; it will act as a carminative antispasmodic and stimulant, used in collapse and weak heart; in septicaemia and pyaemia it has notable antiseptic and antipyretic effects. Useful incarbolic acid poisoning, alcohol, or alcoholic liquors, act as a chemical antidote besides overcoming the shock produced by the acid. It may also be used locally for carbolic acid burns.
The effects of alcohol are noticed in ten or fifteen minutes after administration and will be shown by a better condition of the pulse, the weak pulse becoming stronger and firmer; the quick pulse slower, the breathing becomes more natural, eyes brighten up and in fact a general improvement is shown.
Externally alcohol is used alone as a strengthening application to weak tendons and muscles; or after a race, is used to rub on the legs, combined with other drugs as a liniment, as alcohol, soap-liniment and witch hazel; can be used in surgery as an antiseptic.
To toughen the skin of tender or thin skinned horses who gall or chafe easily under the collar and saddle, alcohol will be found a most satisfactory application.
The thickened juice of the leaves of Aloe vera, Linn., Aloe chinensis, Bak., and probably other species, evaporated to dryness.
Habitat.—The Barbadoes Island.
Properties.—In hard masses, orange, brown, opaque, translucent on the edges; fracture waxy or resinous; odor saffron-like; taste strongly bitter. Almost entirely soluble in alcohol; most used in veterinary medicine.
Constituent.—Aloin; a resin; volatile oil; gallic acid.
Dose.—Horses,1⁄2to 1 oz.; cattle, 1 to 2 oz.; sheep,1⁄2to 1 oz.; pigs, 2 to 4 dr.; 20 gr. to 1 dr.
The juice that flows from the transversely cut leaves of Aloe Perryi, Baker, evaporated to dryness.
Habitat.—Eastern Africa.
Properties.—In hard masses, occasionally soft in the interior; opaque, yellowish-brown, orange-brown ordark ruby-red, fracture resinous. When moistened it emits a fragrant saffron-like odor; taste peculiar, strongly bitter. Almost entirely soluble in alcohol and four parts of boiling water. The powdered socotrine aloes is brighter and redder, and the odor less disagreeable than that of Barbadoes Aloes.
Constituents.—About the same as Barbadoes Aloes.
Dose.—Same as Barbadoes Aloes.
A neutral principle obtained from several varieties of aloes, chiefly from Barbadoes and Socotrine Aloes.
Derivation.—Obtained by pulverizing and macerating aloes in cold water, and evaporating the resulting solution in vacuo. Aloin crystallizes out and is dried between folds of bibulous paper. It is purified by repeated solution in hot water, filtration, recrystallization, and finally by solution in hot alcohol and crystallization.
Properties.—A micro-crystalline powder or minute acicular crystals, lemon yellow or dark yellow in color, possessing a slight odor of aloes and intensely bitter taste. Soluble in water and alcohol.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 2 to 3 dr.; sheep, 20 to 60 gr.; pigs, 10 to 40 gr.; dogs, 11 to 20 gr.; combined with other purgatives.
Made by maceration and percolation of purified aloes, 100 parts; myrrh, 100 parts, and liquorice root, with alcohol and water to make 1000.
Dose.—Dogs,1⁄2to 1 dr.
Action.—Aloes is a purgative, acting chiefly on the large intestines; small doses are bitter tonics; it stimulates both peristalsis and secretion, increases secretion of bile; is also diuretic; applied externally it is stimulant and desiccant; the Barbadoes is the most active and uniform in its effects.
Aloes should be kept in lumps in tin cans or other good containers, only powdered for immediate use; in melting aloes don’t let the temperature rise above 120 degrees as it impairs the activity by converting the active aloin into inert resin. Aloes operate in from 12 to 24 hours after administration; don’t repeat an aloetic purge until 24 hours have elapsed. It also does not cause catharsis. In about 15 hours, the patient should be exercised, but returned to the stall as soon as the desired effect is evident. If it fails to act in 24 hours, linseed oil may be given. Aloin appears to contain the active principles of aloes, and is usually as operative, but some manufactures are ineffective.
Uses Internal.—In dyspepsia with capricious appetite, irregularity of the bowels, hide-bound horses, worms; is used in colic, both spasmodic and flatulent, for overloaded condition of the bowels; to promote excretion of waste products from the bowels and the blood, and consequently relieve febrile symptoms; rheumatic attacks, skin irritation, swollen limbs and inflamed joints; in lymphangitis to prevent and aid in curing. By attracting the blood to the bowels, it is useful in congestion or inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, full doses being necessary; in paralysis, paraplegia or hemiplegia or reflexed paralysis due to indigestion, give full doses. Aloes should not be used in irritation or inflammation of the alimentary canal or piles. It is not advisable to give an aloetic purge when the temperature is above 102° F. Nor in hemorrhage from the rectum; in high fevers it is apt to cause superpurgation, also should not be used where there is great debility or weakness. In influenza the bowels are apt to be irritable and oil is preferable to aloes. Don’t use during pregnancy; may cause abortion. For young foals or other animals, the gentler purgative, such as linseed or castor oil should be used. The medical value of aloes being large, it is impossible to enumerate all the diseases in which it is useful. Externally the tincture of aloes and myrrh is sometimes applied as a stimulant to wounds, and powderedaloes is mixed with plaster of paris in making splints for dogs to prevent these animals from biting and tearing them off. Internally aloes should be combined with ginger, nux vomica and given in capsule or bolus.
Derivation.—From alum slate, shale, schist, a native mixture of aluminum silicate and iron sulphide. This is roasted and exposed to the air, when the sulphur is oxidized into sulphuric acid and combined in part with aluminum and iron to form sulphates. The mass is lixiviated with water, and aluminum and iron sulphates together with sulphuric acid are recovered in solution. The solution is concentrated and to it is added potassium chloride. The double sulphate of potassium and aluminum (alum) is formed, which crystallizes out on cooling, while potassium sulphate and ferric chloride remain as by-products. Alum is purified by recrystallization.
Properties.—Large, colorless, octahedral crystals, sometimes modified by cubes or crystalline fragments; without odor, but having a sweetish and strongly astringent taste. On exposure to the air the crystals are liable to absorb ammonia and acquire a whitish coating. Soluble in nine parts of water, insoluble in alcohol.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 2 to 4 dr.; sheep and pigs, 20 gr. to 1 dr.; emetic for dogs,1⁄2to 1 dr.
Commonly termed burnt alum, is alum deprived of its water of crystallization by heat.
Properties.—A white granular powder, odorless, having a sweetish astringent taste, soluble in twenty parts of water at 60° F. Is a powerful astringent and escharotic.
Derivation.—Made from alum, 100 parts; monohydrate sodium carbonate, 43 parts; water, a sufficientquantity. Mix hot, boiling solutions of alum and sodium carbonate. Precipitate strained, washed and dried.
Properties.—A white, light, amorphous powder; odorless and tasteless; permanent in dry air; insoluble in water or alcohol.
Dose.—Same as alum.
Derivation.—Aluminum hydroxide is dissolved in diluted sulphuric acid, and the solution is filtered and evaporated to dryness.
Properties.—A white, crystalline powder, without odor, having a sweetish and afterwards astringent taste; permanent in the air; soluble in one part of water; insoluble in alcohol.
Dose.—Same as alum.
Actions.—Astringent, at first excites flow of saliva, then markedly decreases it; coagulates pepsin, thus it would derange or entirely arrest digestion; it also stops peristalsis and produces constipation, though sometimes it induces diarrhoea by irritation. It arrests secretions in general and in the circulation contracts the capillaries; it is in this way it arrests secretions, especially those of mucous surfaces, and stops capillary hemorrhage. The sulphate of aluminum is mildly caustic, astringent and antiseptic. Dried alum is caustic and astringent.
Externally.—Dried alum is a caustic, in contact with raw sores, on account of its affinity for water. Alum has no action on unbroken skin, but applied to mucous membranes or denuded parts it is antiseptic and astringent; coagulates albumin of discharges; precipitates or coagulates albumin of the tissues; squeeze blood out of the vessels; reduces inflammation and makes the part whiter, brings together and denser. Alum is a hemostatic, stopping bleeding by compression of the structures surrounding the vessels and by causing blood to clot.
Uses.—In diarrhoea and dysentery, but other astringentsare safer and better, as it may lock the bowels too tight, may be used in weeping sores or weeping skin diseases; in long standing nail wounds by putting one-half to one pound into the soaking tub, also in same way for injured coronets, with raw bulging surfaces that bleed easily, also for sore mouth, sometimes mix a little boric acid; useful in bleeding piles, and in mild solution alum one ounce to water one pint for sore throat; also used internally for bloody urine (haematuria) and for open joints apply the powdered alum to arrest the flow of joint oil (synovia). For catarrhal ophthalmia, after the acute stage, an alum lotion five grains to one ounce of water is very serviceable; for granular lids rub with a crystal of alum. Alum should never be used too strong over the eye as it seems to have the power of dissolving the cornea; a solution containing ten grains of alum to the ounce of water may be used in canker of the ear of dogs; also for leucorrhoea and prolapsus of the rectum; dried alum may be used as a caustic whenever a caustic is indicated, but is not recommended for this purpose. For a powerful drying powder, especially useful when excessive granulation exists. It causes sloughing of the dead tissues and is indicated when the use of the knife is inadmissible.
A liquid containing about 80 per cent of amyl nitrite, together with variable quantities of undetermined compounds.
Derivation.—Obtained through distillation of nitric and amylic alcohol. Distillate purified by sodium carbonate.
Properties.—A clear, yellow or pale yellow liquid, oily, very volatile, peculiar and very diffusive ethereal odor and a pungent aromatic taste. Insoluble in water, but soluble in all proportions in alcohol, ether and chloroform.
Dose.—Horses and cattle,1⁄2to 1 dr.; sheep and pigs, 5 to 15 ms.; dogs, 2 to 5 ms.; amyl nitrite is very seldom given internally; hypodermically, one-half thisdose. By inhalation, same as given internally. It should be fresh as it rapidly deteriorates.
Actions.—It stimulates the heart’s action, greatly dilates the arterioles by paralyzing their muscular coats; causes a sense of fullness in the brain with vertigo, fall of blood pressure due to dilation of the arterioles, lowering of temperature; when the vapor is applied direct to muscular or nerve tissues it suspends or completely arrests its functional activity; it depresses the nervous system and unstriped muscular fiber. Overdoses cause death by respiratory failure.
Uses.—Epileptic attacks may be warded off by its being inhaled; spasmodic asthma, used either internally, hypodermically or best by inhalation; in strychnine poisoning, angina pectoris in tetanus, and as a heart stimulant. It is useful as an inhalation in bringing about recovery from deep chloroform and anesthesia.
Origin.—The anise plant is a native of Egypt and the Levant, but has been introduced in various parts of that continent. It is also cultivated occasionally in the gardens of this country. The fruit is abundantly produced in Malta and Spain; in Romagna, in Italy, whence it is largely exported through Leghorn, and in Central and Southern Russia.
Description.—Ovoid, laterally compressed, 4 to 5 m. m. long; carpels usually cohering and attached to a slender pedicel; grayish or greenish-gray to grayish brown; each with a flat face and five light brown filiform ridges and about 16 oil-tubes; odor and taste agreeable and aromatic. The anise berries are dried and ground, this being the form in which it is usually used.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 1 to 2 oz.; sheep and pigs, 2 to 3 dr.; dogs, 10 to 30 gr.
A volatile oil distilled from the fruit of star anise.
Properties.—A colorless or pale yellow, thin and strongly refractive liquid, having the characteristic odorof anise, and a sweetish, mildly aromatic taste. Specific gravity about 0.975 to 0.985. Soluble in an equal volume of alcohol.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 20 to 30 m.; sheep and pigs, 5 to 10 m.; dogs and cats, 1 to 5 m.
Actions.—Anise is an aromatic stimulant, stomachic and carminative. It is used to relieve indigestion and flatulence, to communicate an agreeable flavor to many medicines, and to diminish the griping of purgatives. Oil of anise resembles in action other volatile oils.
Uses.—The oil of anise is employed with olive oil or alcohol to kill fleas or lice on dogs, rubbed over the skin; and one drop of the pure oil may be placed on the feathers of fowl to cause destruction of lice. The oil of anise is sometimes prescribed to disguise the odor of drugs, and is ordered in cough mixtures for its expectorant properties.
The fruit is given all animals (generally powdered) on their food—frequently with sodium bicarbonate and ginger—to relieve mild forms of indigestion and flatulence through its stomachic and carminative effects.
Derivation.—Make a white paste with cream of tartar, antimony trioxide and water. Set aside 24 hours, boil in water 15 minutes and crystallize.
Properties.—Colorless, transparent crystals of the rhombic system, becoming opaque and white on exposure to the air, or a white granular powder without odor and having a sweet, afterwards disagreeable, metallic taste. Soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 2 to 4 dr.; sheep, 2 to 5 gr.; pigs,1⁄2to 1 gr.; dogs,1⁄10to1⁄2gr. As an emetic for pigs, 4 to 10 gr.; dogs, 1 to 2 gr.
Actions.—Tartar emetic is a systemic and local emetic, a diaphoretic, cardiac and arterial sedative and a gastro-intestinal irritant. It is a powerful waste producer and stimulates the secretions of the stomach, intestines,salivary glands, liver and pancreas. Large doses cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, while toxic doses are followed by vomiting (in animals that can vomit), serious blood purging, great depression of the circulation and respiration weakness, collapse and death. Tartar emetic is also a vermifuge.
Uses.—Tartar emetic is too mild as an emetic in poison cases. In asthma of dogs it may be used in from1⁄10to1⁄2grain doses to relax spasm and promote secretion. For horses its most valuable use is to expel the common round worms from the intestines, for which it is very efficacious; given in two drachm doses once or twice daily in the feed for four to six days, or one-half ounce dissolved in water is given on an empty stomach followed by a full dose of linseed oil.
Phenyl-hydrazine is acted upon by aceto-acetic ether, when phenyl-monomethyl-pyrazolon, ethyl alcohol and water results.
Properties.—Colorless, odorless, scaly crystals, of a bitterish taste. Soluble in water, ether and chloroform.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 3 to 4 drs.; sheep and pigs,1⁄2to 1 dr.; dogs, 5 to 20 grs.
Actions.—Powerful antipyretic, anodyne and local anesthetic, antiseptic, cardiac depressant; it reduces temperature very quickly, usually within half an hour and the effects continue two or more hours. It can be administered by the mouth, hypodermically or intertracheally; as an antiseptic it diminishes oxidation, and promotes heat loss by dilating the cutaneous vessels, but more probably by depressing the activity of the calorifacient centers.
Uses.—Used in high fever where the temperature must be reduced quickly, as in sun-stroke, acute rheumatism; in man a solution of antipyrine from four to ten per cent strength up, is sprayed into the nostrils for hay-fever. Acetanilide is a better and safer and much cheaper drug for febrile diseases.
An aqueous solution of ammonia containing twenty-eight per cent, by weight of the gas.
Derivation.—Evolve ammonia gas by heating ammonium chloride with calcium hydrate and pass it into water.
Properties.—A colorless, transparent liquid, having an excessively pungent odor and a caustic alkaline taste.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 2 to 4 drs.; sheep and pigs,1⁄2to 1 dr.; dogs, 5 to 10 m. Should be diluted one drachm to one pint of water.
An aqueous solution containing ten per cent by weight of ammonia gas.
Derivation.—Same as strong ammonia water.
Properties.—The taste is not so caustic and the odor is less pungent then the stronger water of ammonia.
Dose.—Horses and cattle,1⁄2to 1 oz.; sheep and pigs, 1 to 2 drs.; dogs, 10 to 20 m. Should be diluted one drachm to half pint of water.
An alcoholic solution containing ten per cent., by weight of the ammonia gas.
Derivation.—A solution of caustic ammonia in alcohol.
Properties.—A colorless liquid, having a strong odor of ammonia. This preparation of ammonia possesses properties of ammonia and alcohol.
Dose.—Horses and cattle,1⁄2to 1 oz.; sheep and pigs, 1 to 2 drs.; dogs, 10 to 20 m. Should be diluted in water.
Derivation.—Ammonium carbonate 3.4%, aqua ammonia 9%, oil of lemon 1%, oil of lavender flowers 0.1%, oil of nutmeg 0.1%, alcohol 70%, and distilled water to make 100 parts. Diluted in water.
Properties.—A nearly colorless liquid when first prepared, but gradually acquires an amber color. It has a pungent ammoniacal odor and taste.
Actions.—These four proportions of ammonia are gastric and general stimulants. They stimulate the cardiac respiratory and spinal systems. They irritate the nose when inhaled, but reflexly they stimulate the circulation and respiration, they are good stimulants as they do not affect the brain. The aromatic spirits of ammonia is also a carminative. Externally they are rubefacients, and when confined are vesicants.
Uses.—Its antacid and stimulant properties recommend ammonia in indigestion, tympanites, and spasmodic colic, especially in cattle and sheep. Stimulating the spinals and respiratory systems, it is valuable in the treatment of influenza, pneumonia, pleurisy and similar complaints. The fumes of ammonia are occasionally used to arouse animals from shocks, collapse, or chloroform intoxication, but must be used cautiously, lest excessive irritation of the respiratory mucous membrane be produced. It is a promptly acting antidote in poisoning by opium, aconite, digitalis, and ether narcotic and sedative drugs. It may be administered much diluted in the usual way, injected subcutaneously and intravenously, and also applied externally, in the treatment of snake-bites. On account of its producing bronchial secretion, and assisting in its expulsion, ammonia is serviceable as a stimulating expectorant. To develop its more general effects its alcoholic proportions should be prescribed as spirit of ammonia or the aromatic spirit of ammonia. Externally used in the form of liniment of ammonia, with oils, camphor, etc., proves useful as a stimulant in rheumatism, stiff-joints, muscularstrains, sore throat, pleurisy, pneumonia and influenza, and for preventing the rapid chilling of fomented surfaces. It relieves the irritation caused by nettles, and by bites and stings of insects.
Is made by mixing ammonia water, 350; cottonseed oil, 570; alcohol, 50; oleic acid, 30. The above is recognized by the U. S. P. and is advantageously used on muscular strains and where an external stimulant is indicated.
An aqueous solution of ammonium acetate containing about seven per cent of the salt, together with small amounts of acetic acid and carbon dioxide.
Derivation.—Ammonium carbonate is gradually added to cold, dilute acetic acid until the latter is materialized.
Properties.—A clear, colorless liquid, mildly saline and acidulous taste, and an acid reaction.
Incompatible with acids and alkalies.
Dose.—Horses and cattle, 2 to 4 oz.; sheep and pigs,1⁄2to 1 oz.; dogs, 2 to 6 drs.
Actions.—Diaphoretic, antipyretic, mild stimulant, mild diuretic, mild expectorant and stomachic.
Uses.—Its uses are recommended in febrile and inflammatory attacks, especially in influenza, distemper, etc., combined with other medicines, improves the appetite; can be used externally as a refrigerant over swollen and inflamed tendons.