Biett's Mixture
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Biett's mixture is an antisyphilitic liquid medication formulated by French dermatologist Biett, containing mercuric iodide and potassium iodide. Although historically used for gummata and trial therapy, oral administration was noted to be inefficient compared to injections or inunctions due to poor intestinal absorption of mercury.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
BIETT'S MIXTURE, named after the French dermatologist Biett, consists of mercuric iodide 0.06, potassium iodide 8.0, and water 240.0. It is prescribed 3 times a day, one tablespoon at a time (not on an empty stomach, preferably with milk). It is used for gummatous syphilides and traditionally enjoys a good reputation in anti-syphilitic trial treatment. Since the absorption of mercury from the intestine reaches only 25% of the administered dose, it is more advisable to administer mercury not by mouth, but by means of injections or inunctions.
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“Biett's Mixture.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/bietts-mixture/