Bhigolcne.—A Local Anacshetic.

Waikato Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2054, 5 September 1885, Page 6 (Supplement)

Bhigolcne.— A Local Anacshetic.

The use of cocaine as a looal anroathetip has directed 'attention to the value of petroleum naphtha for similar purposes. The name rbigolene was given by Dr. H. J. Bigelow, of Boston, to a light inflammable liquid obtained by the repeated distillation of petroleum. It is probable that it is not a definite ohemical compound, but it is Baid to be one of the most volatile bodies in existence. By using it in the form of a spray with a common atomizer, it produces a degree of oold sufficient to freeze any tissue with which it may come in contact. Dr. W. Chapman Jarvis, of New York, finds that its action is more decided than that of cocaine, although of shorter duration. Skin and mucous membranes may be divided deeply and freely without fear of pain or hromorrhage. Its effeots pass off quiokly, so that the operator has to act with-promptness. It is a good plan to employ it in conjunction with cocaine. When not in use, it should be kept on ice or in a cool room, tightly corked. In a warm place it would probably burst the bottle or blow out the cork. It has been accused of possessing explosive properties, but probably it is safe if not brought in contact with an open flame. It should not be used for cases which require artificial light. Very little is known about it as yet, although its properties were oursorily investigated BOrne years ago.