NERVOUS DISORDERS. — In epilepsy the inhalation of amyl-nitrite during the aura will ward off the paroxysm. In hysterical paroxysm, catalepsy, and hys tero-epilepsy, the attacks may be cut short by repeated inhalations of the same remedy; it is especially useful in the emergencies of these diseases. In tetanus a severe paroxysm of muscular spasm is often present while the patient is being fed. Here the inhalation of a few drops of amyl-nitrite may avert death by re laxing the tonic spasm of the respiratory muscles. In cerebral amemia the effects of the nitrites are beneficial, but transi tory. The vertig,o of seasickness may be relieved by inhaling, a few drops of amyl nitrite upon the first appearance of the nausea (A. Loomis). In Haynaud's disease J. T. Eskridge advises inhalations of amyl-nitrite in the stages of asphyxia and syncope; relief follows the prompt dilatation of the capillaries through the action of the remedy.
Inhalations of nitrite of arnyl recom mended in epilepsy before the convul sions. It may also be used in the treat ment of pertussis. J. P. Parkinson ( Brit. Med. Jour., Sept. 14, '93). GYNAcoLoGicAL D1SORDERS.—The re flex vasomotor disturbances of the cli macteric and menstrual periods, de pressed mental condition, cold hands and feet, peculiar thishings., hysterical mani
festations, and at times pain are relieved by the nitrites.
Value of amyl-nitrite often verified for the relief of the peculiar flushings and depressed menial condition of the climacteric period in the female; as also for the nervous and hysterical troubles of younger WOIllell, characterized by suffocating spells, spasms, cold hands and feet, etc. In these eases the remedy may be employed internally, in doses of from to 7,„„ of a drop in cold water, or in larger amounts by inhalations. Arthiir Devoe (Med. Summary, Mar., '92).
Tachycardia of menopause. Solution of nitrite of amyl, 5 minims to the ounce of water, a teaspoonful every fifteen min utes until relieved. Baldwin (I3rooklyn Med. Jour., Nov., '95).
NEURALGIA.—Neuralgic dysmenor rhom, when due to muscular spasm, is promptly relieved by the inhalation of a few drops of amyl-nitrite (Mary Putnam Jacoby). lfigraine attended by angio spasm and headache due to cerebral awe mia arc relieved by amyl-nitrite inhala tions.