AN ESSAY ON THE EFFECTS of OPIUM, Considered as a POISON. [Price One Shilling and Sixpence.] AN ESSAY ON THE EFFECTS of OPIUM. Considered as A POISON. With the most Rational Method of Cure, deduced from Experience. Directing likewise the proper Means to be used when Physical Assistance cannot be readily obtained; Necessary to be universally known, for the Preservation of Life. By JOHN AWSITER, Apothecary to the Royal Hospital at Greenwich. —— —— Si quid novisti rectius istis, Candidus imperti—Si non, his utere mecum. HORAT. Epist. VI. Lib. I. LONDON: Printed for G. KEARSLY, in Ludgate-street, MDCCLXIII. TO THE President and Fellows OF THE Royal College of Physicians. Gentlemen, I Was induced to write this Essay, from a Desire of throwing a Light upon a Subject, hitherto but triflingly, and, at best, obscurely treated. As I had no beaten Path to direct me, many perhaps are the Errors that may be traced through every Page. I do not boast an Ability to enforce my Sentiments with that energic and expressive Beauty of Style some are so happy to possess. I am no Author, and can therefore only rely on your _Candour_, in Behalf of a simple Recital of such Facts as I have experienced. When I consider the Novelty of the Subject, and the Rareness of Patients poisoned with Opium, I am inclined to flatter myself, you will not discourage, but be rather inclined to cherish under your Wings, every Effort (however weak) that tends to elucidate so extensive a Branch of Science, as Physic. I beg the Honour of subscribing myself, Gentlemen, Your most obedient, Humble Servant, J. AWSITER. St. _Margaret's Church-Yard, Westminster, January 5, 1762._ PREFATORY DISCOURSE.