QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS 39 



Define ptomaines and state how they are produced. 



Ptomaines are the alkaloidal or basic products of the putrefac- 

 tion of animal or vegetable matter. They are produced by the action 

 of bacteria on nitrogenous matter. 



Distinguish between physiological, chemical and mechanical antidotes 

 and give an example of each. 



A physiological antidote does not act directly upon the poison 

 but produces physiological effects opposite to that of the poison. 

 Example : strychnine as an antidote to opium poisoning. 



A chemical antidote is one which changes the chemical nature of 

 the poison, rendering it inert. Example : sulphates in lead poison- 

 ing form insoluble lead sulphate. 



A mechanical antidote is one that prevents the absorption of the 

 poison. Example: stomach pump, mucilaginous drinks. 



Name three metallic poisons and mention an antidote for each. 

 Lead : antidote, magnesium sulphate. 

 Mercury: antidote, albumin. 

 Copper : antidote, potassium f errocyanide. 



Name the antidotes that should be prescribed in case of poisoning by 

 (a) caustic alkalies, (b) mineral acids, (c) mercuric chloride. 



(a) Vinegar, olive oil, demulcent drinks, lemon juice. 



(b) Sodium bicarbonate, lime water, soap. 



(c) Egg albumin, flour and water. 



Give the treatment for strychnine poisoning in the dog. 



Produce vomiting at once; give tannin ; place patient under 

 ether, chloral or potassium bromide for a few hours. 



Name the antidotes for phosphorous poisoning. 



Copper sulphate, turpentine, peroxide of hydrogen, potassium 

 permanganate. Never use oils. 



Mention a chemical antidote for arsenic and explain its action. 



Freshly prepared hydrated oxide of iron forms the insoluble 

 ferric arsenite or arsenate. 



Give treatment in case of poisoning by Paris green. 



Same as arsenic. See preceding answer. Empty stomach ; give 

 oils and mucilaginous drinks as well as stimulants. 



Give the chemical antidotes for (a) zinc salts, (b) lead salts. 



(a) Solution of tannin (or strong tea) forms the insoluble 

 tannate of zinc. 



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