Origin. - Prepared by distilling dry sodium acetate with strong sulphuric acid.

Description and Properties. - A clear, colorless liquid, of a strong, vinegar-like odor, and a very pungent, purely acid taste. Its specific gravity at 250 Cc. (77 F.) should not be higher than 1.049, corresponding to at least 99 per cent. of absolute acid.

Used externally.

Physiological Action and Therapeutics. - Glacial acetic acid is a powerful corrosive poison, having an action similar to that of the mineral acids. The drug is principally used as a caustic for the removal of warts and corns, and occasionally for blistering the skin.