SNAKE-POISON LITERATUKE. 153 



stitutional effect followed ; but if the same mix- 

 ture was diluted with water and injected into a 

 vein, or into the peritoneal cavity of an animal, 

 symptoms of cobra-poisoning were soon manifest 

 and the animal died. Now, as to what really can what can be 

 be done in snake-bite, I am afraid very little : the snake-wto. 

 first and most important indication is, to prevent 

 the absorption of the venom into the general 

 circulation. 'L'he ligature, excision, and applica- 

 tion or injection of a solution of permanganate 

 of potash — 5 per cent. — are the means to that 

 end.* If the poison gains access to the general 

 ■system, then positively nothing can be done. It 

 is usual to recommend artificial respiration, and 

 the exhibition of stimulants in moderation ; but 

 I fear they are really of very little use.*}- Imme- 



* I have recently had an opportunity of seeing the 

 Wyeth Compressed Permanganate of Potash Tablets, 

 prepared by Messrs. Burroughs, Wellcome and Co., and 

 consider them a very excellent and particularly handy 

 form. They are quite reliable. Four of the one-grain 

 tablets added to a dram and a half of clear water will 

 effectually neutralise snake-venom when brought in con- 

 tact with it. 



+ Stimulants given to excess can do only harm — 

 (vide observations regarding treatment by the intravei)- 

 ous injection of ammonia.) 



