This solution contains about five times as much acetate of ammonia as Liquor Ammonias Acetatis, Lond., and six times as much as Liquor Ammoniae Acetatis, Dub. Edin. The dilute solution of the London Pharmacopoeia was called Spirit of Mind-ererus.

Prep. Made by cautiously neutralizing the strong solution of ammonia with acetic acid. Much heat is evolved in the process [made by neutralizing diluted acetic acid by carbonate of ammonia. U. S.].

Prop. & Comp. A colourless solution, without odour, but with strong saline taste; sp. gr. 1.06; neutral in reaction; it consists of acetate of ammonia (Nh4 O, A), dissolved in water; treated with potash, it evolves ammonia, and with sulphuric acid, acetic vapours. It should not be coloured by sulphuretted hydrogen, nor rendered turbid by a solution of lime; diluted with 4 volumes of water it gives no precipitate with nitrate of silver or chloride of barium. One fluid ounce treated with excess of hydrochloric acid, and evaporated to dryness by a water-bath, leaves a residue of hydrochlorate of ammonia weighing 100 grains. When evaporated, the salt which remains is entirely volatilized by heat.

Therapeutics. It is not a topical stimulant, as free ammonia and the carbonate, but it increases the secretions, especially of the skin, sometimes of the kidneys also; it is very commonly used in the treatment of febrile states of the system, as a diaphoretic and refrigerant. It is stated to relieve painful menstruation when given in large doses.

Dose. 10 min. to 40 min., freely diluted; even more may be given in dysmenorrhoea. [Of the U. S. preparation from half fl. ounce to two ounces.]

Adulteration. It should not contain free acid or alkali, nor be given with fixed alkalies, lime, or magnesia, as ammonia is then set free.