Definition. - A liquid consisting chiefly of dipentene and other hydrocarbons, obtained by the action of concentrated sulphuric acid in oil of turpentine and subsequent rectification with them.

Description and Properties. - A colorless or slightly yellowish, thin liquid having rather an agreeable thyme-like odor and an aromatic, somewhat terbinthinate taste. Only slightly soluble in water, but soluble in an equal volume of alcohol. Terebene should be kept in well-stoppered bottles, in a cool place protected from light.

Dose. - 5-15 minims (0.3-1.0 Cc.) [8 minims (0.5 Cc), U. S. P.].

Physiological Action. - When applied externally terebene acts as a stimulant, germicide, antiseptic, and astringent. Internally, small doses act as a stimulant to the gastro-intestinal tract, large amounts being irritant and producing effects similar to those of turpentine.

The drug is eliminated by the kidneys, bronchial mucous membranes, skin, bowels, etc., acting as a mild astringent and antiseptic at the points of elimination.

Therapeutics. - Externally and Locally. - The inhalation of terebene - 20 minims (1.23 Cc.) daily - allays the cough of laryngeal phthisis and has proved beneficial in irritative bronchial cough, while a spray of terebene mixed with oil of eucalyptus and alcohol has been advised in whooping-cough.

Internally. - Whether inhaled or taken into the stomach, terebene is a powerful stimulant, antiseptic expectorant' in chronic bronchitis.

The drug is of service in affections of either the upper or lower respiratory passages. In winter-cough, bronchorrhea, emphysema, and even in phthisis, it is an efficient remedy.

Not only in bronchial affections is the drug valuable, but it has been used with striking success as a substitute for copaiba and oil of sandalwood in genito-urinary diseases. It has even been claimed to influence favorably the course of puerperal fever and to relieve the symptoms of flatulent dyspepsia.

Administration. - Terebene may be given in emulsion or in mixtures associated with other expectorants and enclosed in capsules or dropped upon sugar.