To the Editor:—Collier’s has a special article this week on “Nikalgin.” Have you any information on this subject? It sounds like nostrum stuff.
P. R. Minahan, M.D., Fond du Lac, Wis.
Answer.—“Nikalgin” is said to be the “invention” of Gordon Edwards, an engineer. Large claims for its anesthetic and antiseptic virtues have been made. While no very definite information seems to be forthcoming regarding the preparation, it has been said to be “composed of quinin, hydrochloric acid and urea.” This would indicate that “Nikalgin” may be nothing more wonderful than the well known local anesthetic, quinin and urea hydrochlorid, the Quininae et Ureae Hydrochloridum of the U. S. Pharmacopeia, or a modification of it.—(Query in The Journal A. M. A., Sept. 22, 1917.)
Pertussin and Syrup of Thyme
To the Editor:—A short time ago I received a sample of “Pertussin” and used some in an obstinate case of bronchitis with excellent results. I have since received a catalog from a pharmaceutical firm, which advertises syrup of thyme. I have searched for a formula to make my own syrup of thyme, but have not been able to find one. Will you publish one?
E. F. Benner, M.D., Salfordville, Pa.
Answer.—The subjoined formula yields a product very similar to “Pertussin” in taste, flavor, composition, and probably in activity as well:
Fluidextract of thyme | 15 c.c. | |
Glycerin | 15 c.c. | |
Syrup | to make | 100 c.c. |
The original German preparation contained 1.5 gm. of sodium bromid in each hundred cubic centimeters, and this might be added to the foregoing formula with advantage, so far as action is concerned. However, a sample of “Pertussin” purchased in the open market in the United States failed to respond to tests for bromids.
As fluidextract of thyme is not official, this formula is presented as furnishing an acceptable preparation: