Formula

ZnI2.

Derivation

Iodide of zinc is obtained by digesting an excess 37 of zinc with iodine diffused in water. It is in the form of fine, white, deliquescent needles, very soluble in water, and of a metallic, styptic taste, resembling that of sulphate of zinc, and is very liable to spontaneous combustion.

Medical Properties And Action

Iodide of zinc is tonic, astringent and antispasmodic.

Therapeutic Uses

Iodide of zinc has been favorably employed in chorea, cachexia, scrofula and hysteria. It has been used for strumous inflammations and enlargements, both externally and internally. Externally it is an efficient local stimulant and escharotic, and is considered to be equal, if not superior to chloride of zinc. In enlarged tonsils it has been advantageously employed in a solution of 10 to 30 grains to the ounce of water. In the form of an ointment composed of a drachm of the iodide to the ounce of lard, it has been used in the treatment of tumors.

Dose

Of iodide of zinc, gr. j, gradually increased to gr. vj, given in the form of syrup.

Dental Uses

Iodide of zinc is a valuable local application in alveolar pyorrhoea, tumors of the mouth, enlargement of the tonsils, etc. In alveolar pyorrhoea it is used in connection with peroxide of hydrogen, which see.

Dental Formulae

For Alveolar Pyorrhoea.

A. W. Harlan.

Zinci iodi . . . gr. xij to xxiv

Aquae . . . Signa. - After drying the gums, inject each pus-pocket with one, two or three drops of this solution.

For Alveolar Pyorrhaea.

A. W. Harlan.

Zinci iodi.....gr.x

Aquae.......

Signa

Inject with a syringe if the pockets are shallow without much carious process.