We have recovered from the primary effects of the brilliant discovery of Dr. Carl Koller, that sixteen months ago electrified the medical world, and can now reason together calmly and dispassionately about this powerful therapeutic agent.
I have been using in private and hospital practice the preparation of the coca leaf for about six years, and for about one year past the alkaloid cocaine, and have reached certain conclusions as to its beneficial and its baneful effects on the central nervous system, that I propose to present for discussion in this paper. I say beneficial and baneful effects, for my first proposition is, that it is as powerful for evil as it is for good.
First. Its effect upon the brain.
—In small doses, that is, three or four drachms of the infusion, or one-half to one grain of the alkaloid, it is one of the most certain and agreeable