CHLORAL HYDRATE

SOURCE INFORMATION

Scientific Classification

• Common Name: Chloral Hydrate
• Chemical Formula: C₂HCl₃O₂
• CAS Number: 302-17-0
• Molecular Weight: 165.45 g/mol

Origin and Historical Facts

• First synthesized in 1832 by Friedrich Wöhler, chloral hydrate gained popularity as a sedative in the mid-1800s.
• It was used in treating various conditions, including insomnia, anxiety, and as a pre-anesthetic agent before surgeries.
• Its use has declined due to the emergence of newer sedatives with fewer side effects.

DRUG PATHOGENESIS

• Chloral hydrate acts as a powerful central nervous system depressant, primarily affecting the cerebral cortex.
• Its sedative effects are mediated through the enhancement of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), leading to decreased neuronal excitability.
• However, its depressant effects can also result in complications such as respiratory depression and cardiac dysregulation.

PHYSICAL CONSTITUTION

• Chloral hydrate is typically presented in crystalline form, soluble in water and alcohol.
• It is used both internally (in higher potencies) and externally (as a dilute solution) in homeopathic practice.

DIATHESIS

• Those with heightened emotional excitability, anxiety, and sensitivity to sensory stimuli.

TEMPERAMENT

• Individuals who are easily agitated or suffer from night terrors, particularly in children.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

• Sedative and hypnotic effects
• Cardiac depressant properties
• Marked impact on skin (erythema, urticaria)

DETAILED ORGAN SYMPTOMS

HEAD

• Morning headaches, worse in the forehead and occiput.
• Passive cerebral hyperaemia, feeling as if a hot band is drawn across the head.
• Auditory hallucinations, such as hearing voices.

EYES

• Bloodshot and watery eyes, with circles of light and black spots.
• Illusions of sight, especially in dim light or with closed eyes.
• Symptoms of conjunctivitis and burning sensations in the eyes.

SKIN

• Red blotches resembling measles; urticaria that worsens with hot drinks or alcohol.
• Intense itching and erythema exacerbated by cold, improving with warmth.
• Conditions like purpura, with cold skin surfaces.

RESPIRATORY

• Severe dyspnea with a feeling of constriction in the chest.
• Asthmatic symptoms associated with insomnia.

SLEEP

• Insomnia accompanied by hallucinations and terrifying dreams.
• Somnolence or excessive sleepiness during the day.

MODALITIES

• Worse: After consuming hot drinks, stimulants, eating, and during the night.
• Better: Symptoms may improve with warmth and rest.

RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER DRUGS

Antidotes: Ammonium, Atropine, Digitalis, Musk.

Comparisons

• Belladonna: For hyperexcitable states.
• Opium: Used for its sedative properties in severe pain or anxiety.
• Apis Mellifica: For conditions with swelling and allergic reactions.
• Luminal: For sleep disturbances associated with skin symptoms.

DOSE

• General: First trituration for hives; otherwise, use higher potencies based on symptoms.
• Local Application: One percent solution for offensive foot sweat.
• Physiological Effects: Typically, 5 to 20 grains, administered cautiously due to potential side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chloral hydrate used for?

• Chloral hydrate is primarily used as a sedative and hypnotic agent in homeopathic medicine, especially for insomnia and anxiety.

How is chloral hydrate administered?

• It can be taken orally in higher potencies or applied topically in a diluted solution.

Is chloral hydrate safe for children?

• It can be used cautiously in children, particularly for night terrors, but should be administered under professional guidance due to potential side effects.