DEP/DUA/1/43/35 (Normalised version)

Andrew Mein

(1787-1788)

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N^o29^th Andrew Mein. at 64.

When formerly spoke of case of this patient expressed doubts in several respects with regard to it.

And pointed out circumstances giving suspicion both catarrh & of intermittent.

Thought it however uncertain whether all symptoms might not originate from one affection.

And was inclined to believe that from an affection of rheumatic kind all of them might originate.

On this conjecture treatment [while] he remained under our care proceeded.

And as [farther] observation of case could lead us to more decided opinion, former conjecture rather confirmed than otherwise.

This however will more particularly appear from short review of practice while continued under care.

Begun by directing for him what we call composite powder of Guaiacum.

This formed of equal parts of Guaiacum & Cream of Tartar.

And while one of cheapest is also in my opinion one of most efficacious modes of exhibiting the Guaiacum.

Need hardly remark that this [Gum] Resin long much celebrated in rheumatic affections.

And particularly so of late by Dr Dawson & other writers.

But by them employed only as dissolved by some active menstruum as ardent Spirit or Volatile Alkaline.

And indeed in only Tincture of Guaiacum now retained by London College in new Pharmacopoeia¹ mentioned employing Complex spirit of Ammonia

Has been common opinion that so far of resinous nature as without [previous] [solution] to be inactive in stomach.

This however am convinced is by no means case.

For when given in form here [described] shows effect in different ways.

Is indeed less diaphoretic than the Tincture.

And not improbable that operation in this way aided both by Alkali & Essential oils.

But notwithstanding this have in many instances seen best effects from it with rheumatic patients.

And can easily introduce it in larger doses than in Tincture where restrained by menstruum.

With our patient when at first taken no other effect than that of gently opening belly.

A consequence naturally resulting both from Guaiacum & Cream of Tartar.

Not improbable however that augments perspiration.

But whether this effect or not, symptoms considerably relieved particularly pains.

Cough however & dyspnoea still continued. But for these complaints also looked upon it as well calculated.

And accordingly after continued for some weeks not only entirely free from pains but much less affected with cough.

Then however complained much of sickness during night.

In this situation farther continuation of medicine seemed unnecessary.

And with view of alleviating sickness directed aromatic mixture.

But since that have seen nothing more of him.

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Explanatory notes:

1) An official publication containing a list of medicinal drugs with their effects and directions for their use. The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh's Pharmacopoeia was first published in 1699.