Infusum Digitalis (U. S. P.)—Infusion of Digitalis.
Related entry: Digitalis (U. S. P.)—Digitalis
Preparation.—"Digitalis, bruised, fifteen grammes (15 Gm.) [232 grs.]; alcohol, one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl℥, 183♏︎]; cinnamon water, one hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (150 Cc.) [5 fl℥, 35♏︎]; boiling water, five hundred cubic centimeters (500 Cc.) [16 fl℥, 435♏︎]; cold water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl℥, 391♏︎]. Upon the digitalis, contained in a suitable vessel, pour the boiling water, and allow it to macerate until the mixture is cold. Then strain, add the alcohol and cinnamon water to the strained liquid, and pass enough cold water through the residue on the strainer to make the product measure one thousand cubic centimeters (.1000 Cc.) [33 fl℥, 391♏︎]"—(U. S. P.).
The cinnamon in this preparation is merely added to flavor the infusion, while the alcohol tends to preserve it. Infusion of digitalis throws down a precipitate on standing several hours.
Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—(See Digitalis.) Infusion of digitalis is the most efficient preparation of foxglove, and is particularly applicable when a diuretic action is desired. It should be remembered that digitalis acts slowly and the infusion should not be pushed too fast, lest an over action result from it a day or two after its administration. Dose, 1 to 4 fluid drachms, 3 times a day, carefully watching its action.
