Syn. Tartar Emetic.

The mode of preparing this substance, its properties, effects on the system, and therapeutic applications as an arterial sedative, have been already fully considered (ii. 56). It is now to be treated of only as a diaphoretic. In this capacity, it is applicable to all cases of febrile and inflammatory disease, in which there is a sthenic condition of system, without irritability of the stomach, or inflammation of the small intestines. There might be danger, in this condition of the stomach and bowels, that it would add injuriously to the existing irritation by its contact with the membrane. Dysentery is not excepted from the general vol. ii.-42 rule; because the medicine is probably, in great measure, or wholly absorbed before it reaches the part of the alimentary canal occupied by that disease. in a typhoid state of fever, even though accompanied with a hot dry skin, I would not recommend it, as I should apprehend that it might still farther injure the blood already impaired, and aid in depressing the already too much depressed forces of the system. It is especially contraindicated in enteric or typhoid fever, not only by its depressing property, but by its probable irritant action on the diseased ileum.

The dose of tartar emetic, as a diaphoretic, is from one-twelfth to one-quarter of a grain; one-sixth or one-eighth being the usual quantity employed. The dose should be repeated every hour, two, or three hours. Should it nauseate in these doses, they may be diminished; should it produce no effect whatever, they may be gradually and cautiously increased. Not unfrequently the antimonial disturbs the bowels; in which case a little laudanum, or other preparation of opium, may be given with it. The medicine is best administered dissolved in water. Antimonial wine may be substituted, if the watery solution cannot be had. From twenty minims to a fluidrachm is the diaphoretic dose for an adult.