Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1858 edition. Excerpt: ...produced by Digitalin upon the absorbent system. Its influence is evidently that of a stimulating tonic, and its impressions are not confined to the absorbent vessels, but extend to the veins, glands, mucous, fibrous, and serous membranes, and to the epidermis. Digitalin is eminently resolvent and alterative, overcoming viscidity of the secretions, and quickening the activity of the entire absorbent system. It excites, in an especial manner, the absorption of serous effusions, and promotes their depuration through the natural channels. From the fact of its influence in increasing the secretive action of the kidneys, it is termed a diuretic. The diuretic effect of Digitalin, however, is not primary, like that of oil of turpentine, cantharides, etc., which operate by direct irritation and stimulation of the urinary organs, but is manifested only in proportion to the degree of absorption excited. Even when Digitalin is given in excess, we do not observe those symptoms of local irritation of the urinary apparatus which attend the administration of the above-named specific diuretics. In diseases requiring large doses, orthe continued use of Digitalin, it will be necessary to counteract the disturbance it usually creates in the functions of digestion and nutrition, as well as the narcotic properties above referred to, and which often render its use objectionable, by the use of suitable remedies. Of the narcotic properties of the Digitalin, we can seldom make any specific use. Thus much of its therapeutic history. Employment.--Among the indications in which Digitalin is employed, we may first mention those conditions characterised by a morbidly increased activity of the arterial system, either throughout its whole extent, or of some of its...