Notes on the Newer Remedies: Their Therapeutic Applications and Modes of Administration, Second Edition Page: 97

FORMA NIL ID.

This drug is known also under the appellation of formic
aldhyd.
Physical Properties.-This agent occurs as a color-
less liquid with a pungent odor.
Therapeutic Applications. This drug is highly
spoken of as a general antiseptic, being considered as
effective as corrosive sublimate. It is recommended as
a sterilizer for surgical dressings, with the advantage
that it does not affect the color or the texture of the
various materials. As a disinfectant, for employment in
hospital wards infested with contagious disease, it is like-
wise highly recommended, as it will not prove poisonous
to patients. For this purpose the evolution of the gas
is effected by heating the solution. For antiseptic uses
formalin can be employed in the strength of I :40 or
in i per cent. solution of the gas. This drug is also
well spoken of in the treatment of excrescences of the
skin and mucous membranes, since in strong solutions it
causes necrosis of the tissues without producing sup-
puration. Experiments seem to show that all micro-
organisms are destroyed in the course of fifteen minutes
in an atmosphere containing 2 per cent. (vol.) of for-
malin.
FORMANILID.
This substance, known also under the name of phenyl-
formamnid, is made by heating anilin with ethyl formate
or with oxalic acid. It is represented by the formula
C6H5-N H.CHO.
Physical Properties.-This drug occurs in the form
of prisms having a melting-point of 114.80 F. (460 C.).
Solubility.-Formanilid is readily soluble in water,
alcohol, and ether.
Physiological Action.-This medicament is said to
act as an analgesic, antipyretic, and haemostatic. The
analgesia produced is followed by complete loss of reflex
action, and lasts from ten to twelve hours. Dropped on
the tongue, it causes a pungent sensation followed by

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