Syrup of Poppies.—The ordinary syrup of poppies is sweetened laudanum. It should, however, be what it is described—viz., a syrup of poppy-heads. As such, it is said to contain one grain of extract of opium to the ounce.
(2.) Patent and other Non-Officinal Preparations of Opium.
Godfrey’s Cordial is made on rather a large scale, and is variable in strength and composition. It usually contains about 11⁄2 grains of opium in each fluid ounce,[374] and, as other constituents: sassafras, molasses or treacle, rectified spirit, and various flavouring ingredients, especially ginger, cloves, and coriander; aniseed and caraways may also be detected.
[374] If made according to Dr. Paris’ formula, 11⁄6 grains in an ounce.
Grinrod’s Remedy for Spasms consists of hydrochlorate of morphine, spirit of sal-volatile, ether, and camphor julep; strength, 1 grain of the hydrochlorate in every 6 ounces.
Lemaurier’s Odontalgic Essence is acetate of morphine dissolved in cherry-laurel water; strength, 1 grain to the ounce.
Nepenthe is a preparation very similar to Liq. Opii sedativ., and is of about the same strength as laudanum.[375]