After reviewing the opinions of several writers who have extolled chlorate of potassa in large doses, and having pointed out the real solution of so many having succumbed to nephritis or similar symptoms, he concludes: “The practical point I wish to make is this, that chlorate of potassa is by no means an indifferent remedy; that it can prove and has proved dangerous and fatal in a number of instances, producing one of the most dangerous diseases—acute nephritis. We are not very careful in regard to doses of alkalies in general, but in regard to the chlorate we ought to be very particular. The more so as the drug, from its well-known either authentic or alleged effects, has arisen or descended into the ranks of popular medicines. Chlorate of potassa or soda is used perhaps more than any other drug I am aware of. Its doses in domestic administration are not weighed but estimated; it is not bought by the drachm or ounce; but the ten or twenty cents worth. It is given indiscriminately to young and old, for days or even weeks, for the public are more given to _taking hold_ of a remedy than to _heed warnings_, and the profession are no better in many respects. Besides, it has appeared to me, acute nephritis is a much more frequent occurrence now than it was twenty years ago. Chronic nephritis is certainly met with much oftener than formerly, and I know that many a death certificate ought to bear the inscription of nephritis instead of meningitis, convulsions or acute pulmonary œdema. Why is that? Partly, assuredly, because for twenty years past diphtheria has given rise to numerous cases of nephritis; partly however, I am afraid, because of the recklessness with which chlorate of potassa has become a popular remedy. Having often met medical men unaware of the possible dangers connected with the indiscriminate use of chlorate of potassa or soda, I thought this Society would excuse my bringing up this subject. It may appear trifling, but you who deal with individual lives, which often are lost or recovered by trifles, will understand that I was anxious to impress the dangers of an important and popular drug on my colleagues, and through them on the public.” DEMANGE ON AZOTURIA.