REPORT ON SOLUBLE CITRATE OF MAGNESIA. 
117 
In conclusion, we would express the belief that the soluble ci- 
trate of magnesia, although not calculated to supercede the effer- 
vescing solution now in use, when that can be readily obtained, 
is a useful and valuable addition to the materia medica. 
Though as obtained by us in the course of our somewhat hurried 
experiments, it contains a small excess of the acid, there can be 
little doubt that further experience will enable us to produce it 
more nearly neutral, a desideratum less important from the fact 
that a small excess of acid improves its taste, without materially 
interfering with its therapeutical applications. The dose of the 
salt is generally stated at one ounce. 
Its advantages may be thus summed up : 
1st. It will keep, as far as we know, without losing its pro- 
perties. 
2d. It is portable, a dose occupying about l-10th the bulk of a 
dose of the solution. 
3d. It is more readily divided into large or small quantities to 
suit the means and wants of purchasers. 
4th. It may be readily incorporated with other substances in 
prescription without materially increasing their bulk. 
5th. It may be employed to make the solution extemporaneous- 
ly, so as at at all times to have it fresh, by the following formula: 
Take of Soluble Citrate of Magnesia, 1 ounce. 
Water, 8 fluid ounces. 
Make a solution, transfer to a suitable bottle, and add 
Syrup, 1J fluid ounces. 
Bicarbonate of Potassa, 40 grains. 
Cork immediately and securely, 
If the citrate is neutral it will require the addition of a portion 
of citric acid, or the employment of lemon syrup. It may be fla- 
vored to suit the taste. A specimen is presented prepared as 
above. 
