Tartar emetic

Tartar emetic, << TAHR tur ih MEHT ihk, >> is a medicinal preparation once used to cause vomiting. It is now used to make patients cough up phlegm and mucus. Tartar emetic is prepared from antimony oxide and potassium tartrate. In large doses, it is a violent, irritating poison. Tartar emetic should be taken only when prescribed by a doctor.