Origin. - An aqueous solution of chlorine, containing when freshly prepared about 0.4 per cent. of chlorine, with some oxides of chlorine and potassium chloride.

Description and Properties. - A clear, greenish-yellow liquid, having the suffocating odor and disagreeable taste of chlorine, and leaving no residue on evaporation. Chlorine water, even when kept from light and air, is apt to deteriorate; when it is required of full strength, it should be freshly prepared.

Dose. - 1-4 fluidrams (3.7-15.0 Cc.) [1 dram (4 Cc), U. S. P.].

Antagonists and Incompatibles. - The salts of lead and silver are incompatible.

Synergists. - The antiseptics are theorectically synergistic, though practically the drug is almost always used alone.

Physiological Action.- Externally and Locally. - Chlorine water is a powerful antiseptic, germicide, and deodorant. When applied to the skin it acts as a rubefacient and vesicant, while the vapor is distinctly irritating to the respiratory passages.

Internally. - Chlorine water is more or less irritating to the mucous membrane of the stomach, and possesses an astringent taste.

Therapeutics. - Externally and Locally. - Chlorine water is still occasionally used as an antiseptic and deodorant in gangrenous or sloughing wounds and for disinfecting foul discharges, etc. It has proved beneficial as a local application in aphthous stomatitis, diphtheria, and parasitic skin diseases.

Administration. - When given internally the drug should be well diluted. Should poisoning ensue from the ingestion of excessive amounts, albumen is the best antidote; for the irritation occasioned by the inhalation of chlorine gas steam-inhalations are indicated.