Formula

3CdS04+8H2O.

Derivation

Sulphate of Cadmium is obtained by the action of nitric acid, diluted with distilled water, on the metal cadmium, the solution filtered and mixed with carbonate of soda, and again dissolved in sulphuric acid diluted with distilled water. It is in the form of transparent, colorless crystals, like those of sulphate of zinc.

Medical Properties And Action

Sulphate of cadmium is emetic and astringent, and closely resembles sulphate of zinc in its action, but is stronger, with a caustic astringent taste. It is very nauseant and depresses greatly. Locally it is an irritant poison, and produces the cerebro-spinal symptoms of coma and convulsions; it is not administered internally, as the preparations of zinc are preferable for such use.

Therapeutic Uses

Sulphate of cadmium is employed locally in affections of the eye, being valuable as a collyrium; it has the power of causing absorption of opacities of the cornea to a remarkable degree. It is also used as an injection in gonorrhoea, in the strength of one grain to four ounces of water. It is also used in the form of ointment, two grains with four scruples of lard.

Dental Uses

Sulphate of cadmium has been employed in ulcerations of mucous membrane, gangrene of the mouth, or can-crum oris, indolent ulcers, purulent diseases of the antrum, in the form of injections and lotions, of a strength about one grain of the sulphate to four ounces of water.