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

Action and Uses: Beverage and flavor.

Cactus Grandiflorus (Cact. Grand.), Cactus Grandiflorus, N.F. (Night Blooming Cereus).—Fresh stems.

Action and Uses: Used in neurotic heart disturbances; results probably imaginary. Drug apparently inactive.

Tinctura Cacti Grandiflori (Tr. Cact. Grand.), Tincture of Cactus Grandiflorus, N.F.—Cactus grandiflorus (50%) in alcohol. Absolute alcohol content about 65 per cent.

Dosage: 1 Cc. or 15 minims (N.F.).

*Caffeina (Caffein.), Caffeine, U.S.P. (Theine).—An alkaloid obtained from coffee or tea.

White, silky, efflorescent needles, odorless and bitter. Soluble in water (1:46) and in alcohol (1:66).

Action and Uses: Diuretic; cardiac, respiratory and psychic stimulant. Used as a nerve stimulant in poisoning by narcotic drugs and for the relief of headache. Widely used to combat the circulatory depression of the acute infectious diseases but its value in such conditions is uncertain. As a diuretic probably inferior to theobromine.

Dosage: 0.15 Gm. or 2-1/2 grains (U.S.P.), in capsules.

Caffeina Citrata (Caffein Cit.), Citrated Caffeine, U.S.P.—Caffeine and citric acid equal parts.