256 SPECIFICS FOR THE ALIMENTARY TRACT 



Eserine (Physostigmine), Arecoline, Pilocarpine and one which 

 produces purgation in an entirely different manner, Barium 

 chloride. 



These drugs are all discussed in detail in other places. Eserine 

 p. 203, Pilocarpine p. 206, Arecoline p. 208, Barium, chloride 

 p. 357. 



Briefly their uses are as follows : 



PHYSOSTIGMINE — ESERINE 



1. Myotic, See Myotics, p. 214. 



2. Stimulant to involuntary muscle, as in impaction of the 

 bowels to increase or stimulate peristalsis. Usually, or at least 

 often, combined with pilocarpine to start the secretions as 



B Eserinse Sulph grs. j 



PilocarpinsB Hyd grs. iij 



Aquse (Sterilis) 3 j 



In atonic conditions of the stomach and bowels and chronic 

 intestinal catarrh, small doses frequently repeated are sometimes of 

 benefit. 



Contraindications. 



1. Impactions and overdistentions of the stomach and intestines 

 from undigested food. In this case it may cause rupture of the 

 walls of the intestines and stomach. (It is often used, however, 

 with gratifying results.) 



2. In spasmodic colic, since it tends to increase the convulsive 

 contractions of the bowels, consequently the pain is increased. 

 There is also some danger of causing twist by the violent peristalsis. 



3. In pregnancy eserine may cause abortion. 



4. In tympanites and chronic indigestion of cattle eserine is 

 not recommended by some, although it is the general opinion that it 

 is a safe and efficient remedy in acute tympany. 



Antidote. Atropine or hyoscyamine. 



Caution: Since eserine and its salts decompose on exposure to 

 the air, it is not suitable for hypodermic tablets. It should be pur- 

 chased in hermetically sealed tubes. Solutions a week old have 

 proved effective, but tend to deteriorate and assume a purple color. 

 The salicylate is more stable than the sulphate. 



Pilocarpine. This is indicated for the same conditions as eser- 

 ine and usually combined with it. It has been recommended by 

 some as an absorbent for serous exudates. 



Contraindications. 



1. It should not be given where the heart is weak. This also 

 holds true in case of any of this group. 



