Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Antimonial
Introduction
Antimonials, in pre-modern medicine, were remedies principally containing antimony, used chiefly for emetic purposes. They might also have qualified for cathartic, diaphoretic, or simply alterative uses. Such treatments were considered unparalleled in their strength.
References
References
- The following passage from Oliver Twist, published between 1837—1839, illustrates the use of the word antimonial to mean emetic in common (as well as medical) terms:
- Bumble shook his head, as he replied, “Obstinate people, Mr. Sowerberry; very obstinate. Proud, too, I’m afraid, sir.”
- “Proud, eh?” exclaimed Mr. Sowerberry with a sneer. “Come, that’s too much.”
- “Oh, it’s sickening,” replied the beadle. “Antimonial, Mr. Sowerberry!”