DERIVATION.--This salt may be formed by neutralizing crude solution of
ammonia or ammonium carbonate with hydrochloric acid and purifying the
product.
PROPERTIES.--A white, crystalline powder without odor, having a cooling,
saline taste, and permanent in the air. Soluble in two parts of water;
in fifty parts alcohol.
DOSES.--Horses, 1 to 2 drs.; cattle, 4 drs. to 1 oz.; sheep and pigs, 15
grs. to 1 dr.; dogs, 5 to 10 grs.
ACTIONS.--Internally it is an expectorant, alterative, feebly
diaphoretic and diuretic. When ingested, ammonium chloride is a feeble
heart and respiratory stimulant, and is not comparable to the ammonia
compounds or ammonium carbonate in this respect. It is eliminated in
great part unchanged by the urine, but also by the other channels. In
its excretion it stimulates the mucous membranes, increases their
secretion generally, and is thought to improve their nutrition. Ammonium
chloride both excites the secretion of the bronchial mucous membrane and
renders it less viscid in inflammatory conditions. Externally it is a
refrigerant.
USES.--Useful in all diseases where an expectorant is indicated,
catarrhal condition, pneumonia, coughs, influenza, chronic congestion of
the liver, etc. Used externally one part ammonium chloride dissolved in
ten parts of water as a refrigerant lotion for inflammatory swellings,
bruises and sprains.