This form of preparation is very ancient, and although it has of late
years fallen into disuse, it affords an efficacious mode of
administering many powerful remedies, and in some instances of producing
effects which the same medicine would not command if given in any other
form: besides which, it is found that after the stomach by long use has
lost its susceptibility to the action of medicine, such a substance will
operate with fresh and unabated force if applied to the rectum. There
are two great indications which _Suppositories_ are calculated to
fulfil, _viz._
1, _The alleviation of pain and irritation_, especially when it arises
from diseases of the bladder, prostate gland, uterus, and other parts in
the vicinity. Abortion may be thus frequently prevented. To fulfil these
intentions, a mixture of opium with two parts of soap, will be found
eligible. I can recommend such an application from a well grounded
experience in its efficacy.
2, _The production of Catharsis_. In cases of Apoplexy, from the
counter-irritation which these remedies are likely to occasion, much
advantage may arise; and in the failure of more common measures, they
may be applied with certain success in the cure of Ascarides; see
_Formula 146_. Where a very efficient Suppository is required, one or
two grains of _Elaterium_ rubbed up with eight grains of hard soap, will
present us with a combination of great utility.