528 PRACTICE OF PHYSIC. 



other, comprehending those preparations in which the reguline 

 part is already joined with an acid rendering it active. 



CLXXXIII. Of each kind there are great numbers, but 

 not differing essentially from one another. It will be enough 

 for us to compare the Calx Antimonii Nitrata (Oxyd. Antim. 

 cum Phosphate Calcis) of the Edinburgh Dispensatory, with the 

 Emetic tartar of the same. The former, as I judge, is nearly 

 the same with what is called James's Powder. Which of 

 these is best suited to the cure of fevers, as above explained, 

 seems doubtful ; but it appears to me that although the former 

 may have some advantages from its slower operation, and may 

 thereby seem to be more certainly sudorific and purgative, yet 

 the uncertainty of its dose renders it inconvenient, and has often 

 given occasion to the timid to be disappointed and to the bold 

 to do mischief. On the other hand, the dose of the emetic tar- 

 tar can be exactly ascertained ; and I think it may be exhibited 

 in such a manner as to produce all the advantages of the other. 



CLXXXI V. Whichsoever of these preparations be employ- 

 ed, I judge the most proper time for exhibiting them to be the 

 time of accessions ; or a little before, when that can be certain- 

 ly known. In continued fevers, the exacerbations are not al- 

 ways very observable ; but there is reason to think that one 

 commonly happens about noon, or soon after it, and another 

 in the evening ; and that these, therefore, are the most proper 

 times for exhibiting emetics. 



CLXXXV. With respect to the manner of administration, 

 that of the Calx Nitrata is simple, as the whole of what is judg- 

 ed a proper dose is given at once, and no more can properly be 

 given till the time of the next accession. 



The administration of the emetic tartar is different. It is to 

 be given in small doses not sufficient to excite vomiting ; and 

 these doses, after short intervals, are to be repeated for several 

 times, till sickness, nausea, and some, but not much, vomiting 

 come on. The difference of this administration must depend 

 upon the dose, and the length of the intervals at which it is 

 given. If it be intended that the medicine should certainly 

 operate by stool, the doses are made small, and the intervals 

 long. On the contrary, when vomiting is proper, or when much 



