DIAPHTHERIN, OR OXYQUINASEPTOL.
—This is a yellow, crystalline powder, soluble in water and dilute alcohol, and is a non-poisonous antiseptic. It is used in 'A- to 2-per-cent. solutions for dress ing wounds, ulcers, burns, etc., in exter nal and median otitis and in eczema of the ear and nose. In solution it does not stain the hands, but it blackens steel instruments. This discoloration can he easily removed.
Diaphtherin possesses decided germi cidal powers. A solution of the strength of 0.3 per cent. and one of 0.1 per cent. were sufficient to kill the staphylococcus pyogenes aureus in the course of fifteen minutes and forty-five minutes, respect ively. Diaphtherin occurs in powdered form, very soluble in water. Solutions of 1-per-cent. strength have been em ployed with advantage in the treatment of wounds. It may also be used as a dusting-powder. The only disadvantage noticed so far is the staining of steel instruments occasioned by the drug. Kronacher (Munch. med. Woch., May 10, '92).
Diaphtherin as a germicide is much better than phenol and lysol in the form of a 2- or 3-per-cent. solution. Instru
ments that are not nickled are black ened by its use. It has an advantage over carbolic acid in that it is easily transported, either in the form of powder or tablets. It is chemically clean and its action easily controlled. It is not poisonous. A watery solution is per fectly clear, and there is no evaporation. Its use in surgery is recommended in strengths of to 2-per-cent. solutions. It is a most excellent dressing in cases of burns. There is never any irritation about the edges of wounds after its use, but occasionally patients complain of a slight burning sensation. The solutions do not affect the hands of the operator as do sublimate and carbolic solutions. Its greatest application is to be found in the treatment of nasal and aural troubles. Lembach and Schleicher (Corres. f. Schweizer Aerzte, Nov. 1, '92).