26 Observations and Experiments on Opium. 



to the action of oether, and the residue to proof spirits, as in 

 the above formula, which the addition of acetic acid is ad- 

 mirably adapted to improve, by rendering the morphia more 

 soluble, and consequently more active, in the same manner 

 and nearly in the same ratio, as sulphuric acid united with 

 quinine, which, by increasing its solubility, renders it much 

 more active and efficient. Dr. Thomson, speaking of mor- 

 phia, observes, that in its uncombined state, being scarcely 

 soluble in water, or in the fluids of the stomach, it does not 

 display its properties in a striking manner when exhibited 

 alone, but these are very striking when combined with an 

 acid, particularly the acetic. I would here remark that the 

 acetate of morphia* of the shops, is a sub-acetate and is less 

 active than the acetate or super-acetate, which being a de- 

 liquescent salt, it is necessary to keep it in solution ; it is 

 therefore requisite in making the solution from the sub-ace- 

 tate to add acetic acid rather in excess, than under neutrali- 

 sation. The following is the formula I have adopted, which 

 will make a handsome solution and is a preparation which 

 will keep. 



Sub-acetate of morphia - - - 12 grs. 



Alcohol acidulated with twelve drops of acetic 



acid pure (concentrated pyroligneous acid) 1 drachm. 



Distilled water 1 oz. 



Dissolve the morphia in the acidulated alcohol, adding the 

 water by degrees, and filter ; dose of the solution from fifteen 

 to twenty drops. 



This preparation has been very successfully used by Dr. 

 Holcombe of Allentown, and Dr. Canfield of Arneytown, 

 New Jersey, in cases where other preparations of opium pro- 

 duced such distressing effects as frequently to prevent its ad- 

 ministration. This preparation is now extensively employed, 

 and is attended with the happiest consequences. 



Narcotine. 

 By the following process I obtained narcotine in a perfect- 

 ly pure state. 



* I found in one instance the morphia, under the name of acetate, per- 

 fectly uncombined with acid. This would certainly have a tendency to 

 deteriorate the activity of this valuable medicine, and also to ruin the 

 just reputation this article has acquired; it is therefore highly important 

 to test this salt when you administer it in substance, When in solu- 

 tion it must be united with acid, as morphia is insoluble in water. 



