Epitome of the Pharmacopeia of the United States and the National Formulary / With Comments

by Albion Walter Hewlett; William August Puckner; Torald Hermann Sollmann; Martin I. Wilbert

*Plumbi Acetas (Plumb. Acet.), Lead Acetate, U.S.P. (Sugar of Lead).—Pb(CH₃COO)₂ + 3H₂O.

Colorless, shining transparent crystals or heavy white crystalline masses, efflorescent, with a faint vinegar odor and a sweetish, astringent, afterward metallic taste. Freely soluble in water (1:1.4) and soluble in alcohol (1:38).

Action and Uses: Seldom used internally for fear of lead poisoning. Externally, used as astringent lotion.

Dosage: 0.06 Gm. or 1 grain (U.S.P.).

Lotio Plumbi et Opii (Lot. Plumb. et Opii), Lotion of Lead and Opium, N.F. (Lead and Opium Wash).—A mixture of lead acetate (1.75%) and tincture of opium (3.5%) in water.

Uses: A popular but irrational application, astringent and protective, but not a true anesthetic. The opium alkaloids are not absorbed to any appreciable extent through the unbroken skin.

Plumbi Carbonas (Plumb. Carb.), Lead Carbonate, N.F. (White Lead).—A mixture of lead carbonate and hydroxide.

Heavy, white, odorless, tasteless powder. Insoluble in alcohol or water.

Action and Uses: External protective and astringent, without marked advantage over zinc oxide or the bismuth preparations, but involving some danger of lead poisoning.

Plumbi Iodidum (Plumb. Iod.), Lead Iodide, N.F.—PbI₂.