82 SYNOPSIS OF VETERINARY 



artificial alkaloid derived from hydrastine, the alkaloid of hydras- 

 tis. 



Recommended for controling uterine hemorrhage. 



Dose. — Dogs, ^ to ]/&, gr. ; Horses, grs. 2 to 6. 



Antagonists and Incompatibles. — Alkalies, tannic and muri- 

 atic acids are chemically incompatible. They precipitate ber- 

 berine from it. 



Synergist.- — Vegetable tonics in general. 



Physiological Action of Hydrastis. — It acts like the simple 

 bitters, promotes appetite and aids digestion, increases nutrition, 

 and stimulates secretion, especially of the intestines and liver. It is 

 a stomach tonic, laxative, slightly diuretic and hepatic stimulant. 

 Locally it is an antiseptic and astringent. In poisonous doses 

 it acts like strychnine, but less powerful, and requires the same 

 antidote. It is a convulsant and paralyzer. It is also said to 

 promote uterine contractions, and has some power as an antiperi- 

 odic. The alkaloid is a motor stimulant. 



Therapy.— Useful in conjunctivitis, nasal gleet and leu- 

 corrhcea ; 5 i to 3 ij of the fluid extract to the ounce of distilled 

 water. One to two drachms of the fluid extract of hydrastis to 

 one ounce of water is useful as a gargle for sore throat. Equal 

 parts of fluid extract of ergot and fluid extract of hydrastis is 

 useful in ulceration of the uterus, vagina, and in eversion of the 

 rectum. Useful internally during convalescence after debilitat- 

 ing diseases, as influenza and distemper, or wherever a bitter 

 tonic is indicated, as in dyspepsia, chronic gastric catarrh, ca- 

 tarrhal jaundice, constipation from deficient secretions, chronic 

 nephritis and chronic cystitis. The glycerite applied locally for 

 fissure of teats, and cracked heels, in full strength; also said to 

 be useful in excessive sweating. Where there is a tendency to 

 constipation it should be used as a bitter- in preference to gen- 

 tian, etc. 



For Conjunctivitis or Keratitis. 

 5 Ac Borici grs. x. 



Fid. Hydrastis 3 ij. 



Aq. Dest. qs. ad. § j. 

 M. Sig. — A few drops in the eye 3 or 4 times daily. 



As a gargle : 



B Tr. Capsici. § ss — 3 vj. 



Fid. Ext. Hydrastis § iij. 

 Aq. qs. ad. 3 xij. 



M. Sig. — One ounce every two or three hours. 



