A new and easy method for the subcutaneous application of morphia : without the pain, risk and expense of the hypodermic syringe / by John M. Crombie.

  • Crombie, John Mann, 1844-1883.
Date:
1873
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: A new and easy method for the subcutaneous application of morphia : without the pain, risk and expense of the hypodermic syringe / by John M. Crombie. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by The Royal College of Surgeons of England. The original may be consulted at The Royal College of Surgeons of England.

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    SUBCUTANEOUS APPLICATION OF MORPHIA, BY THE HYPODERMIC SUPPOSITORY. The introduction of morphia into the system sub-cuta- neously becomes desirable in every instance where its anodyne effects are required, and where there yet exists a constitutional incompatibility or intoleration for the drug when administered by the mouth. The victim of a severe neuralgia, for example, is obliged to avoid the morphia draught or pill that under similar pressure is eagerly sought by another, because when taken it either does not at all alleviate his suffering, or if it does so in any degree is accom- panied or followed by a train of experiences even more harassing than his antecedent condition—such as delirium, headache, sickness, burning thirst, and constipation. But let the morphia he brought to bear immediately on his suffering by deposition beneath the skin, and the probability is that the suffering ceases; he perhaps sleeps, and awakes refreshed, without having paid or having to pay any indemnity for Iris deliverance. The great frequency of such cases, it will be readily understood, gives a high importance to the hypo- dermic method. And, further, even when no serious incon- venience immediately follows the introduction of morphia into the stomach, if the drug has to be used for any length of time, it is found by experience that the subcutaneous appli- cation is by far the most beneficial mode of administration.