LITHONTHRYPTICS _with_ NARCOTICS. As a palliative in calculous irritation, the union of alkalies and opium proves a valuable resource. Henbane may likewise be advantageously combined with a Lithonthryptic; for, be it remembered, that few narcotics are more efficacious in allaying nephritic irritation. (_Form. 156._) We have also frequently two important indications to fulfil in the treatment of urinary concretions; where the lithic acid diathesis prevails, it will be necessary to neutralize any acidity in the first passages, and at the same time to regulate the functions of the skin; we have moreover to give tone to the digestive organs; so that, in such cases, the art of medicinal combination is well calculated to extend our resources. In the formation of these compounds we should rarely attempt to fulfil more than two indications, although cases may occur in which it will be eligible to assail the disease with an engine of _triple_ powers, as exemplified by _Form. 52_ . In constructing, however, such complex arrangements the practitioner must of course take care that he does not fall into the error of CONTRAINDICATION, and combine substances which possess properties essentially different, and which are at variance with, or directly opposed to each other; it is an error of the most serious description, and unfortunately is one of too common occurrence in the lower walks of medical practice; “_crimine ab uno disce omnes_.” I lately met with a country practitioner who, upon being asked by a lady whom he attended, the intention of three different draughts which he had sent her, replied, that one would warm, the second cool her, and that the third was calculated to moderate the too violent effects of either; thus it is that discredit and contempt fall upon the use of medicines, which ought only to attach to the ignorant pretenders, or designing knaves who administer them.