Physiological Action. — The germi cidal properties of methyl-blue have been defended by Fessler and Troje, but the conflicting views of these authors have tended to impair the value of their ex periments. According to ressler, pyo genic organisms were killed by exposure to a 1 to 1000 solution during 15 min utes; Troje found that at least 12 hours were required. These discrepancies were sustained by clinical experience, various observers obtaining conflicting results in surgical and especially ophthalmic work.
The cause of this was explained by Lie breich, when he showed that the composi tion of methyl-blue was uncertain. In deed it may either be a tetra-, a penta-, or a hexa- methyl-parasanilin, or a mixt ure varying in proportions.
Therapeutics. — Though the results have been contradictory, there is much evidence in favor of the value of methyl blue as an antiseptic in the treatment of suppurating wounds, and chronic dis orders of the mucous surfaces. In con junctivitis, ulcers of the cornea, tra choma, and corneal opacities it has been found of marked benefit by some ob servers and valueless by others. The
cause of this, perhaps, lies in the fact that a solution of methyl-blue is un stable. Stilling especially recommends that a solution should be filtered, kept in dark bottles, and renewed every eight days.
In ophthalmia of all forms pyoktanin checks the discharge promptly, and pre vents corneal ulceration. A solution of 3 grains to the fluidounce is quite strong enough, and should be applied every six hours in bad cases. after the conjunctival surface has been thoroughly cleansed. In follicular tonsillitis its action is prompt and uniform. The whole tonsillar sur face and adjacent tissues should be mopped with the above solution two or three times in twenty-four hours, fol lowed by a gargle of potassium bromide, 4 drachms; glycerin, 2 fluidounces; and water, pint. This should be used every hour, and is better if used very hot.
F. Coomes (Amer. Pract., xxix, P. 194, '99):