These few objections, and many more might be adduced, are sufficient to demonstrate the imperfection of the classification under consideration, and which would render it wholly unavailable to the pathologist who must adopt his treatment according to the physiological action of each poison. The author has accordingly, in his “Pharmacologia”[[212]] ventured to propose an arrangement, in conformity with such views; and the following sketch of it may perhaps form a useful introduction to the general observations which it will be hereafter necessary to offer upon the “modus operandi” of poisons.
A CLASSIFICATION OF THE DIFFERENT MODES BY WHICH POISONS PRODUCE THEIR EFFECTS.
† This mark denotes that the substance, against which it is placed, may also act by being absorbed.
‡ Signifies that the article has also a local action.
I. BY ACTING THROUGH THE MEDIUM OF THE NERVES, WITHOUT BEING ABSORBED, AND WITHOUT EXCITING ANY LOCAL INFLAMMATION.
a. By which the functions of the nervous system are destroyed.
Acrid.
Aconite.
Jatropa Curcas.
Narcotico-Acrid.