ATTEMPTS TO CONTROL PARATHYROID TETANY BY THE ORAL ADMINISTRATION OF AMMONIUM CHLORIDE

Abstract

Parathyroidec-tomized dogs and controls were given NH4C1 averaging 0.5 gm. per kgm. of body weight per day. This treatment reduced the frequency and severity of tetany attacks in parathyroidectomized dogs. Complete recovery did not as a rule occur, though the period of survival was prolonged. Previous to death, the animals passed through a period of depression, anorexia and progressive emaciation, without tetany. It was impossible to obtain a consistent rise in the blood Ca concentration after the administration of NH4C1. The paper corroborates the findings of others, that acid-producing substances tend to relieve tetany.