ANTIPERIODICS.
It is well understood that malarial diseases are characterized by a periodicity which indicates their nature. Antiperiodics prevent the recurrence of the periodic manifestations, and hence their name.
Quinine (Sulphate of Quinia). Quinine is a tonic, febrifuge, and antiperiodic. It should generally be administered during the intervals between the febrile paroxysms. It is beneficial also in all diseases accompanied by debility. The dose varies from one to six grains according to indications. Frequently it is given in much larger quantities, but we cannot advise such for domestic use.
Prussian Blue (Ferri Ferrocyanidum). Ferrocyanide of Iron is an excellent tonic and antiperiodic remedy, and often is combined with quinine. Dose—From two to five grains.
Boneset (Eupatorium Perfoliatum), or Thoroughwort. This is tonic, diaphoretic, aperient, and possesses some antiperiodic properties; the warm infusion is emetic. Dose—Of the infusion, one to four ounces; of the fluid extract, from half to one teaspoonful; of the active principle, Eupatorin, one to three grains.
The "Golden Medical Discovery" has gained an enviable reputation in malarial districts for the cure of ague. From observing its action in the cure of this and other miasmatic diseases, and knowing its composition, we are thoroughly satisfied that it contains chemical properties which neutralize and destroy the miasmatic or ague poison which is in the system, and, at the same time, produces a rapid excretion of the neutralized poisons. One strong proof of this is found in the fact that persons who are cured with it are not so liable to relapse as those in whom the chills are broken with Quinine or other agents. No bad effects are experienced after an attack of ague which has been cured with the "Golden Medical Discovery." This cannot be said of Quinine, Peruvian Bark, Arsenic, and Mercurials, which comprise nearly the whole list of remedies usually resorted to by physicians for arresting ague. The "Golden Medical Discovery" not only has the merit of being a certain antidote for miasmatic diseases, but is pleasant to the taste, a matter of no small importance, especially when administered to children. To break the chills, this medicine should be taken in doses of four teaspoonfuls three times a day, and if this treatment pursued for three days, does not entirely arrest the chills, these doses may be repeated in alternation with five-grain doses of quinine for the three succeeding days. But in no case should more than this amount of the "Golden Medical Discovery" be given.