

USES AS A COUNTER-IRRITANT 673 



horses, and, in acute diseases of the respiratory organs, 

 are neither so certain nor so satisfactory as hot fomen- 

 tations. 



In many cases of catarrh and sore-throat, heat and mois- 

 ture are certainly more effectual than blisters ; but tedious, 

 irritable conditions of the larynx, inducing coughing, are 

 often relieved by a cantharides dressing. In the outset of 

 roaring, counter-irritation is often useful. In acute bron- 

 chitis, when mainly affecting the larger tubes, it is serviceable 

 in conjunction with inhalation of steam, and after stuping 

 the parts with hot water. But many think favourably of 

 fly blisters in cases where considerable exudation blocks 

 the smaller tubes. Their efficacy is seldom so obvious in 

 pneumonia, especially when involving a considerable area. 

 In pleurodynia and most stages of pleurisy, cantharides 

 is specially useful ; in the earlier stages it moderates acute 

 inflammation, while later it checks or removes effusion. 

 It is the counter-irritant usually applied in inflammation 

 of the pericardium. Although occasionally used, it is 

 never of much value, in either colic or enteritis. In periton- 

 itis it is seldom so effectual as in pleurisy, but was advised 

 by Robertson in chronic cases. Where acute inflammation 

 extends over a considerable area of tKe peritoneum, it is 

 desirable that the blister be applied some little distance to 

 the side of and not directly over the closely underlying 

 inflamed spot. Cases of paralysis in cows depending upon 

 parturient apoplexy are usually benefited by moderate 

 counter-irritation, maintained for a week or ten days. 

 In rheumatism, in all patients, advantage frequently results 

 from a fly blister which is maintained active by repeated 

 application. 



Irritation and inflammation of joints, bursse, ligaments, 

 tendons, and bones are combated, and effused products 

 removed by blisters properly used. When external surfaces 

 or comparatively superficial textures are to be directly 

 stimulated, the cantharides application must be mild, and 

 not too long applied. When deeper-seated parts are to be 

 acted on, more powerful preparations are needful, and their 

 effects may be maintained by repetition. It is seldom 

 advisable to apply cantharides directly to any part which 



