In deciding what drugs to order for a patient it is frequently necessary to take into consideration what the local druggist can supply. This applies particularly to small towns and suburban neighborhoods. What may be a common remedy in one section of the country may be almost unused and not carried in stock in another. For example, the average village pharmacy might not be able to supply good fresh preparations of benzoinated lard, confection of rose, syrup of orange, etc., as these are seldom used in some sections, and do not keep very well.

In New Orleans many preparations that are in common use on account of the large French element might not be obtainable in other cities of a different character of population.

The point to be impressed is that a physician prescribing drugs that are not in common use should be reasonably sure that the druggist can supply them. If there is a doubt it is better for the pre-scriber to inform himself in the matter, as he may be able to save himself, the pharmacist, and the patient inconvenience or embarrassment.