The perfection of a Medicinal Prescription may be defined by three words; it should be Precise (in its directions,) Concise (in its construction,) Decisive (in its operation.) It should carry upon its very face an air of energy and decision, and speak intelligibly the indications which it is to fulfil. It may be laid down as a position which is not in much danger of being controverted, that where the intention of a medicinal compound is obscure, its operation will be imbecile.
A Medicinal Formula has been divided into four constituent parts, a division which will be found to admit of useful application to practice, in as much as it was evidently suggested with a view of accomplishing the more prominent objects which have been related in the preceding pages; or, in the language of Asclepiades, of enabling the Basis to operate “Cito,” “Tuto,” et “Jucunde.” Quickly, Safely, and Pleasantly—thus
I. The Basis, or Principal Medicine.
(curare.)
II. The Adjuvans; that which assists and promotes its operation.
(“Cito.”)
III. The Corrigens; that which corrects its operation.
(“Tuto.”)
IV. The Constituens; that which imparts an agreeable form.
(“Jucunde.”)