MATERIA MEDICA AND THERAPEUTICS. 105 



UNGUBNTUM I ODI— Iodine Ointment.— Composed of 

 iodine four parts, iod. of pot. i part, water tv/o parts and ben- 

 zoated lard 93 parts ; strength 4 per cent. 



There is also an ointment of pot. iod. (12%) but is too mild 

 for veterinary use. 



Antagonists and Incompatibles. — Iodine is incompatible. with 

 nearly everything, the mineral acids, metallic sa'ts, the alkaloids, 

 etc. The chemical .antidote is starch, which forms almost an in- 

 ert compound. Bicarbonate of soda 2 to 4-oz. doses twice daily 

 seems to check iodism. Starch should be given freely diffused in 

 water ; when possible evacuate the stomach for horses, emetic for 

 dog, followed with a purgative if the animal is not too much de- 

 bilitated. Do not give iodine near a me? 1 its action is im- 

 paired ; administer on an empty stomach. 



Synergist. — Alkalies and other remedies which increase 

 waste favor the action of iodine and iodides; under some con- 

 ditions mercurials are especially synergistic. 



Physiological Actions. — Externally, stains the skin yellow, 

 is stimulant, irritant and vesicant if used concentrated, antiseptic, 

 (1 in 7000 destroys bacilli and spores) also resolvent, parasiticide, 

 deodorizer and disinfectant, but is too expensive for the latter . 

 purpose. Tincture of iodine is sometimes used in man and the 

 smaller animals, as a counter-irritant. Iodine acts notably on the 

 skin, mucous membranes and lymphatic glands, strong solutions 

 cause irritation and desquamation of the cuticle, and on that ac- 

 count stimulates the growth of hair. 



Internally. — Alterative, resolvent, deobstruent and expecto- 

 rant. Large doses of iodine or its compounds are general depres- 

 sants. Medicinal doses stimulate glandular activity and promote 

 tissue change, as well as the absorption and elimination of recent 

 formed tissue and diseased cells. They hasten the removal of 

 lead, mercury, and other metals from the system by combining 

 with them. It is eliminated by the mucous surfaces and glands, 

 particularly in the saliva, perspiration and urine 4 consequently 

 full doses may irritate these channels of elimination. 



Toxicology. — The chain of poisonous symptoms are called 

 Iodism, and is produced by continued full doses of iodine or its 

 salts, or where an idiosyncrasy exists. Iodism is characterized 

 by great prostration, loss of appetite, won't dn'nk water, an ir- 



