The Daily Cincinnati Republican, And Commercial Register

FOR THE REPUBLICAN.
EPIDEMIC CHOLERA.
When the Cholera reappeared in this city, in October last, several cases were treated with large doses of sugar of lead [acetas plumbi] and opium, without the use of Calomel. The effects were so beneficial, that the profession in the South, where, unhappily, the disease has recurred, ought to give the compound a fair trial—if indeed they have not already done so. The dose was ten grains of the sugar of lead and one of opium, mixed; and repeated every two hours—in one case every hour—till the diarrhœa ceased: the patients being warm in bed, and taking but little drink.
One person, who took thirty grains in two hours, suffered some degree of distress in his stomach, which was relieved by the use of salt and water, as an antidote.
In all cases the secretion of the liver was restored, without the subsequent use of calomel.
The following would probably be a better formula, than that which was used:
Sugar of lead, 10 grains,
Capsicum,
5 grains,
Opium powdered 1 grain—mixed.
In two cases the compound first mentioned was given successfully, after the rice water had been discharged; but it should never be forgotten that the Cholera is generally fatal unless treated in the early stages.
In concluding I may remark, that nothing, as yet, indicates a return of the epidemic upon our city.
DANIEL DRAKE, M. D.
Cincinnati, June 1, 1835.
To Editors in the South who exchange with this paper, may perhaps render a public service by extracting the above.