Phenacetinum
Phenacetin (acetophenetidin) · Human-made/chemical
Phenacetinum suits cases of drug toxicity from the aniline group, particularly where recurring facial eruptions, excessive sweating, and nervous symptoms follow its use. It may be indicated in typhoid-like fevers with uremic complications.
Key symptoms
- Circumscribed erythematous exfoliating eruption on both cheeks, recurring repeatedly
- Vertigo and faintness
- Headache with flushed face
- Edema of lower eyelids and fingers
- Excessive perspiration
- Permanent deafness
- Cyanosis
Para-acetphenatidine. C6H4OC2H5NHC2H3O.
Clinical
Cyanosis. Face, eruption on. Fevers. Headache. Perspiration, excessive. Typhoid fever. Uræmia.
Characteristics
Phenacet. belongs to the Aniline group, and was introduced into old-school practice as a remedy in febrile states and neuralgias, free from the dangers of Antfeb., Antipyr., Exalg., &c. Though not so dangerous as these, it is not free from ill effects. These have been well summed up by F. G. Oehme (H. R., xv. 506), and I have put them in Schema form, and added a symptom observed by myself on a young lady who had taken Phenacet. for headaches: A circumscribed rash on both cheeks which came out red, lasted four days and then peeled, and as soon as it was clear the process was repeated. I tried many remedies with varying success, but it finally disappeared under Alm. 30, one powder at bedtime.
Classical texts are in the public domain. Educational reference only — not medical advice.
