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IODOFORM. 429

and possesses slight analgesic and antipyretic action. Externally
it is applied in the form of a dry dusting powder, and promotes
rapid healing of incised and lacerated wounds, burns and ulcers.
It is also employed by insufflation, in catarrhal conditions of the
ear, nose, and throat. It is also used in chancres, chancroids and
mucous patches with advantage. Internally iatrol is employed
for fermentative conditions of the alimentary canal.
to ij, either alone or combined with
Dose,—Internally, gr. j
nux vomica, bismuth, or podophyllin.
Dental Uses.—Iatrol is employed as an antiseptic and germicide
in all pathological conditions of the oral cavity where iodoform,
iodol, aristol, etc., may be indicated. It is also incorporated in a
dentifrice with satisfactory results. For mucous patches and
ulcers of the mouth it possesses advantages over many other an-
tiseptic and germicidal agents in being non-toxic, non-irritant,
and odorless.
lODOFORMUM—IODOFORM.
TERIODIDE OF FORMYL.
Formula.—CHI3.
Derivation.—Iodoform is a preparation of iodine, being ob-
tained by the action of chlorinated lime upon an alcoholic solu-
tion of iodide of potassium, heated at 104° F., the product being
iodoform and iodate of lime, the iodoform being separated by
boiling alcohol. It is in the form of small, pearly crystals, of a
yellow color, with an unpleasant odor, like that of saffron, and a
sweetish taste, and soft to the touch. It is volatile, and soluble
in alcohol, chloroform, ether and the fixed and volatile oils, but
insoluble in water.
Medical Properties and Physiological Action.—Iodoform has no
irritant action, and, in small doses is tonic, stimulant, anodyne,
alterative and disinfectant, having great influence on the nervous
system -, it is also antiseptic, but is not a germicide, and although
its germicidal action is practically nothing, it is extensively used
in surgical practice. Its good effects upon the tissues of wounds
are due to its protecting power both mechanically and by the dry-
ness it maintains, when it is applied in the form of a powder.