An ammonia compound, in which the thre atoms of hydrogen are replaced by methyl, NC3H9= N(CH3)3, dissolved in water.

Source. - Obtained from herring brine by distillation. It is also contained in cod-liver oil and in various plants.

Characters. - Trimethylamin contains 10 to 20 per cent. of the ammonia compound; is colourless, with a very disagreeable smell and taste; alkaline; miscible with water. Propylamin is another name for impure trimethylamin. Dose. - 20 to 60 min.

Action And Uses

Externally, trimethylamin is a local irritant. Internally, it lowers the frequency of the heart, the blood-pressure, and the temperature. It was for a time believed to be specially valuable in acute rheumatism, but is now very seldom used.