fNTEODUCTION. 9 



Haxjstus, a draught or drench, a liquid mixture 

 intended as a single dose. 



Inhalationes aut Vapoees, inhalations or va- 

 pors, are medicines in the form of vapor, gas, or 

 atomized spray, intended for inhalation for their 

 effect upon the respiratory mucous membrane. 



Injbctiones, injections, are aqueous preparations 

 intended for introduction into the cavities of the body 

 by means of a syringe, and are termed according to 

 the part to which they are applied — i.e., urethral, to 

 the urethra, etc. 



LoTio, a lotion or vrash, is an aqueous preparation 

 for external use, usually containing some astringent 

 salt. It is applied without friction. 



The Administration of Medicines. 



Medicines may be introduced into the circulation 

 by six different methods : 



1. Gastro-intestinal Eoxjte is mostly used. 

 The remedies after being swallowed are absorbed by 

 the gastro-intestinal blood-vessels and lacteals, and so 

 pass into the circulation. 



3. The Rectum absorbs many substances applied 

 in the form of enemata and suppositories. 



3. The Respiratory Tract also rapidly absorbs 

 many medicinal substances on account of its exten- 

 sive blood supply. These remedies are in the form 

 of vapors or atomized fluids. 



4. The Veins and Arteries are sometimes used 

 as a means of introduction for medicines into the sys- 



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