The chief objection to these drugs is that their strength is rapidly lost, unless they are kept in well-stoppered bottles, and in the dark.
All preparations of ammonia should be administered in about one ounce of water.
Sal volatile, or aromatic spirit of ammonia.—Dose, twenty to sixty drops for a single administration, or up to thirty drops if repeated frequently. This is the most convenient and pleasant preparation of ammonia, but is bulky. As a local application, it is of service in relieving the pain caused by the bites of certain insects, e.g., mosquitoes and fleas.
Carbonate of ammonia.—Dose, three to ten grains.
Liquor ammoniæ, or solution of ammonia.—Dose, five to twenty drops.
(Note.—This is not the strong solution, which is always labelled “Liq. Ammon. Fort.,” and which is three times stronger than liquor ammoniæ.)
Ammonium chloride.—Dose, five to twenty grains. This drug is chiefly used in congestion of the liver, especially where acute inflammation or abscess is threatened; at times it is useful in neuralgia and chronic bronchitis. It is also used for inflamed and relaxed sore throat, in the form of a gargle, five to ten grains to the ounce of water.
Antipyrine.—Dose, five to ten grains. (Uses as Phenacetin.)
* Araroba, Chrysarobin, or Goa powder.—Is not for internal use. One part of the powder mixed with one of acetic acid and fourteen of lard makes what is known as araroba ointment.
Araroba ointment is useful in many skin diseases, such as psoriasis; it easily destroys the parasites in ringworm, dhobie itch, or kraw kraw. It is a powerful drug, and should be used only in small amounts, for if applied too freely it will cause some inflammation and pain. Care must be taken that it is not rubbed into the eyes.