(Methylacetanilide).

Origin. - As the chemical name indicates, this substance is a derivative of acetanilid.

Description and Properties. - Exalgine occurs in colorless needles or prisms, inodorous and tasteless. It is neutral to test-paper, and is freely soluble in alcohol, chloroform, carbon disulphide, and boiling water. It requires about 60 parts of cold water or 10 parts of ether for solution. Dose. - 2-4 grains (0.1-0.2 Gm.).

Antagonists and Incompatibles. - Exalgine is incompatible with the iodides, salicylic acid, and solution of potassa.

Synergists. - All members of this group, as well as opium, cocaine, belladonna, and hyoscyamus.

Physiological Action. - Exalgine is almost identical in its action with acetanilid, with the exception that it possesses less antipyretic power. In medicinal doses the drug increases arterial tension, and in full doses profoundly affects the cerebrospinal axis. It is more uncertain and not as safe as acetanilid.