Chloral Hydrate

CC13.CH:(OH)2. Mpt. 57° C. White crystalline substance, formed by the combination of water with chloral. Sulphuric acid withdraws water with the formation of chloral. It is used largely as a hypnotic, but has a depre ing effect upon the nervous centers, and is injurious to many. The habit of taking it is easily acquired, and abandoned with great difficulty.