This section is from the book "Laboratory Manual Of Pharmacology", by A. D. Bush. Also available from Amazon: Laboratory manual of pharmacology.
The Sulphate of Magnesia, or Epsom Salt, contains approximately 50% anhydrous magnesium sulphate. It should be kept in tight containers.
Properties:
Appearance............................................................................................................ | Effect when exposed to air...................................................... |
Color ............................................................................................... | Solubility in H2O ...................................... |
Odor ..................................................................................................................................... | C2H5OH.............................................. |
Taste....................................................................... |
Magnesium Sulphate is a drastic hydrogogue purgative. Dose, 15 Gm. Epsom Salt is also one ingredient in Infusum Sennae Compositum.
Other official preparations of Magnesia are the Carbonate, and the Light and Heavy Oxides, each of which is somewhat dubiously used as an antacid.
 
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