When vinegar is taken continuously for five to six weeks, it causes emaciation, and in cases of obesity was formerly used with the object of taking down superfluous fat. A wineglassful was given each morning, fasting, and again at bedtime, but serious consequences, such as phthisis, etc., having occasionally followed this treatment, it has fallen into disuse.

Preparations And Dose

Acidum aceticum glaciale: not given internally. Acidum aceticum: used externally as a rubefacient, vesicant, and escharotic. Acidum aceticum dilutum: dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr., or more, well diluted. Oxymel: dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. Acetum (vinegar): dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr.

[Preparations, U. S. P. - Acidum aceticum, sp. gravity 1.047. Acidum aceticum dilutum: acetic acid 1 pint, distilled water seven pints; Acetum].

Adulterations

Sulphuric acid and metallic impurities taken up from metal vessels in which it has been kept.