DEP/DUA/1/47/57 (Normalised version)

Alexander Glasgow

(1790)

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No33. Alexander Glasgow at 32.

In case of this patient as formerly observed had a distinctly marked instance of Rheumatism.

And since came under our care no circumstance has occurred to lead me in any degree to alter opinion with respect to it.

Then viewed disease as in that condition which would term state of irritability.

And from all circumstances taken together entertained hopes that in no long time might be brought to favourable termination.

In this must confess have not hitherto made all progress which expected.

But at the same time was at last report considerably better than formerly

And this am inclined to think might at least with some probability be attributed to medicine employed.

Began practice here by directing for patient, Pill Thebaic to extent of grain X every night at bed time.

And at same time ordered parts most pained to be carefully anointed every night at bed time with Unguent Terebinth cum Opio.

From both these medicines here looked for good effect.

Of influence of opium as allaying pain, when taken internally, need not say anything.

And here, in Pill Thebaic, employed to extent of grain for dose.

Which with patient before [illegible ] to use hoped would have desired affect

But this affect not only results from internal, but also from external use of Opium.

And have [particularly] in many former instances experienced good effects from it when given under form here [directed] that viz of Unguent Terebinth cum Opio.

From both one & other however, expectations here disappointed.

For pains still continue to the full as severe as before.

While at same time complains also of very bound belly, a circumstance to which was inclined in part at least to attribute severity of pains.

This constipation however had little doubt in attributing to pills.

And as these medicines without effect thought it better to omit them

With continuing ointment therefore now substitute to the Pills composite powder of Guaiac consisting of equal parts of that Gum Resina & Cream Tartar united.

In this state is indeed a less active medicine than in forms of simple or volatile elixir.

But more easily taken, & a cheaper medicine for Dispensary practice.

While at same time, much more soluble than when taken without Cream of Tartar.

And in this state, has in general some effect, both as moving belly, & promoting diaphoresis.

Both these consequences here evidently resulted from employment.

And although not considerable at first, yet has had under use gradual mitigation of pain.

In so much indeed, that whatever may be after state of disease, look upon this as example of benefit to be derived from employment in such instances of Rheumatism.