Ergot in in

(ur-gof '-in-in), An alkaloid from ergot of rye, occurring in white needles; it is effective in hemorrhage, in erysipelas, and in certain brain-affections. For hypo dermatic water. injection, -fa to gr. is used, di olved in lactic acid and Ergotism (ur' '-got-izm). The constitutional effects of overdoses of ergot or of the persistent use of food containing ergot. These are manifested by severe cramps, chiefly in the muscles of the leg, ending in tonic contraction of these muscles the spasmodic form; and secondly by gangrene of the extremities— the gangrenous form. The symptoms may be acute or chronic. See Pellagra .