Syn. Nitre.

It is only as a diuretic that nitre is to be considered in this place, having been treated of, in its other relations, along with the arterial sedatives (II. 83).

if taken in small and frequently repeated doses, with the free use of cool drinks, and under circumstances of exposure calculated to give a direction of its action rather to the kidneys than the surface, nitre will often operate powerfully as a diuretic. There is no doubt that it enters the circulation, and produces its effects by direct contact with the kidneys, as it has been detected in the urine, after administration by the stomach. Uniting sedative and refrigerant properties with those of a diuretic, it is admirably adapted to cases of febrile and inflammatory dropsy, though it will also act favourably in other cases; due care being taken to guard against its depressing effects.

The dose is ten or fifteen grains, to be given at such intervals that at least two drachms may be taken in twenty-four hours. Less than this quantity cannot be depended on for efficient diuretic action. it may be given dissolved in pure water, barley-water, or some diuretic liquid, as infusion of juniper, fleabane, wild carrot, etc., or water with sweet spirit of nitre; and should also be accompanied with the free use of one of these, or some analogous drink. The patient, moreover, should be kept cool, or at least not warmly covered, in bed.