Are medicines which promote the secretion and discharge of urine, the effect being produced in a different manner by different medicines ; some acting directly upon the kidneys by sympathy with the stomach, while others are taken up by the blood-vessels, and in their elimination from the blood cause an extra secretion of the urine. In either case their effect is to diminish the watery part of the blood, and thus promote the absorption of fluid effused into any of the cavities, or into the cellular membrane, in the various forms of dropsy.

1. Diuretic Bolus

Nitre, 6 grains; digitalis, 1/2 to 1 grain; ginger,

4 grains. Linseed meal and water to form a bolus, which is to be given night and morning.

2. Diuretic And Alterative

Iodide of potassium, 3 grains; nitre, 4 grains; digitalis, 1/2 grain; extract of gentian, 5 grains. Mix, and give twice a day.