ON THE FERRUGINOUS WINES, ETC. 
223 
strength. As the quantity of iron dissolved is in proportion 
to the acid contained in the wine, and as it is difficult to ob- 
tain, at all times, a wine identical in its constituents, the 
chalybeates resulting from them must of course be possessed 
of different degrees of tonic effect. 
Though Of an inconstant character, there is a certain degree 
of confidence attached to their use, from the knowledge that 
they are not of a class to expose a patient to imminent dan- 
ger in taking increased doses. 
Under existing circumstances, it is desirable that physicians, 
in prescribing Vinum Ferri, would specify the formula they 
intend, in order to determine the quantity of active ingre- 
dient. 
To a physician who would properly appreciate the medi- 
cinal value of these martial preparations, it is requisite to ob- 
serve not only the composition of each formula, but also the 
chemical action resulting from the ingredients in contact with 
the wine. 
The wines of the compounds of iron are not so liable to 
this objection. The later discovered combinations with citric 
acid are used to a considerable extent. 
As the American Journal of Pharmacy presents the best 
medium of information to our apothecaries upon the subject 
of formulae, when not given in the National Pharmacopoeia, 
and supplies the place of a Vade Mecum, or Apothecaries' 
Manual, I have collated for the use of its readers, from the 
principal Pharmacopoeias, a few formulas appertaining to the 
Wines of Iron, which, it is hoped, may prove useful as a re- 
ference. 
First in order is the old formula of the U. S. and Dublin 
Pharmacopoeias. 
" Take of 
Iron Wire, cut in pieces, 4 oz. 
White Rhenish Wine, 4 pints. 
Sprinkle the wire with some of the wine, and expose it to 
the air till covered with rust, then add the remainder of the 
