ETHYL CHLORIDE 263 



I 



agents in lubricating instruments, protecting metal from rust, preserving 

 leather, and is sometimes employed as a vehicle for electuaries, 



Aethyus Chlobiduu. (U. S. P.) Cj Hj CI. 



Synonym. — Ethyl chloride, E.; chlorure d'6thyle, Fr.; aethylchlorid, G. 



Ethyl chloride is a colorless, mobile, very volatile liquid, having a charac- 

 teristic, ethereal odor, and a burning taste; slightly soluble in water but readily 

 soluble in alcohol. It is made by the action of HCl gas upon absolute ethyl alco- 

 hol. It is usually sold in glass tubes with a screw or lever-spring metal top 

 enabling the fluid to be sprayed upon the surface of the body in any desired 

 amount. 



On account of its great volatility and rapid evaporation it abstracts heat 

 and freezes a part, and so acts as a local anesthetic. It is convenient for minor 

 surgical operations, as opening abscess or boil, or for aspiration. The vapor is 

 very inflammable. Ethyl chloride is also used to produce transient, general anes- 

 thesia. 1 or 2 drams may be used for dogs. It is exceedingly rapid in its effects 

 and a safe anesthetic for short periods. It is sprayed into the neck of a funnel, 

 the large end being partly filled with absorbent cotton and held tightly over 

 the nose. Recovery is also extremely rapid. Ethyl chloride is often E(old under 

 the name of "kelene." It is used frequently as a preliminary to ether in human 

 practice and is more agreeable to inhale. Plenty of air should be allowed, except 

 at the outset. 



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