MATERIA MEDICA AND THERAPEUTICS. 207 



Toxicology. — The poisonous effects of Physostigma or its 

 alkaloid give rise to the following symptoms : 



Muscular tremors which continue throughout the toxic period 

 and may be so violent as to simulate convulsions. 



This is followed by loss of muscular power and the animal 

 falls or lies down. 



The respiration becomes rapid, labored and stertorous ; the 

 pulse is increased in frequency by large toxic doses and the tem- 

 perature is slightly elevated. 



There is salivation and sweating. 



The pupil may be contracted and when enormous lethal doses 

 have been given it is dilated. 



Vomiting occurs in animals capable of the act and loud 

 peristaltic noises are heard, followed by the expulsion of fasces 

 and flatus. 



Reflex action is diminished or abolished, but sensation per- 

 sists until late in the toxic period. 



The muscles remain completely relaxed and powerless, not- 

 withstanding the tremors which afflict them. 



The breathing becomes weak and irregular and death occurs 

 from respiratory failure. 



The tremors and muscular weakness are occasionally exhibited 

 as a result of i}4 grs. of eserine sulphate, bul the writer has 

 never seen death occur from this dose. 



Atropine hypodermatically or intratracheally in small doses is 

 probably the best antidote ; — spts. Glonoin and alcoholic and am- 

 moniacal stimulants may also be administered. 



Uses. — Very useful in constipation due to torpor of the 

 bowels, l ? l. Ext. Malabar Bean combined with Fl. Extracts of bella- 

 donna, nux vomica and colchicum l / 2 drachm doses of each every 

 2 hours. . In tetanus is used with varying results ; it is antagonis- 

 tic to strychnine and atropine poisoning. 



For the Eye. — Eserine 4 to 5 grs. to the 1 oz. of distilled 

 water is used to relieve congestion, inflammation and tension. 



To break up and prevent adhesions of the iris and lens, alter- 

 nate with atropine. Used to contract the pupil and vessels of 

 the eye and thereby relieving pain and photophobia. 



In cases of obstinate constipation eserine is contraindicated 



