In British hospitals, preference is given to oleic acid over alcoholic preparations for iodine soaps, as the former do not stain and can be washed off with soap and water. The following formula is given:

I

Iodine..........     1 av. ounce

Oleic acid.......     1 fluidounce

Alcohol..........     6 fluidrachms

Stronger water of ammonia......     2 fluidrachms

This makes a soapy paste soluble in all liquids, except fixed oils.

II

Iodine.......... 1 av. ounce

Oleic acid....... 2 fluidounces

Stronger water of ammonia...... 3 fluidrachms

Paraffine oil, colorless, to make 20 fluidounces

III

Iodine.......... 1 av. ounce

Alcohol......... 5 fluidounces

Solution of ammonium oleate. 1 fluidounce

Glycerine to make 20 fluidounces

The solution of ammonium oleate is made from oleic acid and spirit of ammonia.