View report page

85
One sample of Sal Volatile was returned as adulterated owing to a
deficiency of ammonia to the extent of 16 per cent.
Two samples of sulphur ointment were reported as adulterated on
account of an excess of sulphur, the active ingredient, this excess being 10 per
cent, in one case and 13 per cent, in the other.
Four samples of thyroid tablets were submitted for examination. The
samples were too small to permit of anything like a complete examination,
but the quantities of iodine, calculated on the stated dose of thyroid present,
which serve as a guide to the amounts of thyroxine, varied from 0.159 to
0.573 per cent. It was noted that only two of the samples were sold as being
of pharmacopoeial quality, but it is unsafe to allow such a wide variation in
the potency of active drugs. This variation can normally only be detected
by the doctor by the effect he observes on the patient. It is to be hoped,
therefore, that it may be possible to give some other test in future Pharmacopoeias,
which can be carried out on quantities which the normal purchaser
will obtain.
The two samples of tincture of iodine, which were adulterated, were
9.2 and 17.6 per cent, deficient in iodine respectively.
During the year it will be noticed that many more drugs have been
examined than in former years and a recommendation for merciful treatment
has always been put forward. At the same time, it has to be remembered
that with the passing of the Pharmacy and Poisons Act, 1933, the pharmacist
is given even greater responsibility than previously with regard to the supply
of drugs. It is necessary not only for him to be specially qualified, but also,
to be registered. He is, therefore, in a different position to that of the
retailer of food, and, in the event of his being unable to fulfil the important
trust imposed on him, it will be necessary to recommend that more drastic
action should be taken.