Dover's powder

noun

Pharmacology.

1. a powder containing ipecac and opium, used as an anodyne, diaphoretic, and antispasmodic.

Dover's powder

noun

1. a preparation of opium and ipecacuanha, formerly used to relieve pain, induce sweating, and check spasms

Word History and Origins

Origin of Dover's powder¹

1795–1805; named after T. Dover (1660–1742), English physician

Word History and Origins

Origin of Dover's powder¹

C19: named after Thomas Dover (1660–1742), English physician

Example Sentences

Thomas Dover was a septuagenarian when he developed the hugely popular Dover’s Powder.

From Forbes

The cough, even in mild cases, generally requires some slight palliative, such as syrup of ipecac., and an occasional small dose of Dover's powder.

From Project Gutenberg

Dover's powder, if well borne, should be administered at night.

From Project Gutenberg

Dover's powder, solution of the acetate of ammonia, and other mild diaphoretics are to be selected.

From Project Gutenberg

To relieve pain and procure sleep opium—either uncombined or in the form of Dover's powder—belladonna, camphor, assafoetida, valerian, etc. have been recommended by different physicians; liniments containing camphor or chloroform have also been used with advantage for the same purpose.

From Project Gutenberg