Latin, Acidum Citricum (Gen., Acidi Citrici)

Eng., Citric Acid. Formula, H3C6H5O7 + H2O. An organic acid usually prepared from the juice of limes or lemons.

Form

Colorless crystals.

Odor And Taste

Odorless and an agreeable acid taste.

Solubility

In 0.5 part of water and in 1.8 parts of alcohol.

1 Stelwagon: Diseases of the Skin.

2 Ohmann-Dumesnil: Diseases of the Skin. 3 Ibid.

Incompatibles

Should not be prescribed in dry form or with alkaline acetates, carbonates, sulphides, tartrates, or mineral acids. Average Dose.-8 grains (0.5 Gm.).

Official Preparations.

Syrupus Acidi Citrici (Gen., Syrupi Acidi Citrici)

Eng., Syrup of Citric Acid. Synonym, Syrup of Lemon. Contains 1 per cent. each of Citric Acid and Tincture of Lemon-peel.

This was introduced to replace the old syrup of lemon. A pleasant flavor and vehicle that may be given in doses as wanted.

Citric acid is used in the preparation of many effervescing preparations, solutions, syrups, etc. The effect is usually sought by prescribing the citrates.

Therapeutic Action

Refrigerant, antiscorbutic, mild laxative, and the citrates are systemic alkalinizers.

Uses

Citric acid is seldom employed as such by the physician. Its uses are more fully discussed under Citrates and Limonis Succus.

Official Citrates.