All Objects Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Pill Cutter |
Object ID |
2004.120.01.01 |
Description |
2004.120.01.01: Flat rectangular base sits on a slant. Metal troughs at one end. 2004.120.01.02: Cutter is a paddle-shaped with ridges on underside. 2004.120.01.02 Pill Cutter Handle |
Dimension Details |
2004.120.01.01: 3x39x15.5 2004.120.01.02: 1.5x7x37 |
Materials |
Wood/Copper/Metal |
Inscription Type |
Manufacturer's Mark |
Inscription Text |
Illegible |
MeSH Search Terms |
Technology, Pharmaceutical Pharmacy Drug Compounding / Instrumentation |
Classification |
Pharmacy Pharmacy and Drug |
Related Publications |
P2004-120a; P2004-120b |
Research Notes |
This machine, called a pill cutter, was introduced in the nineteenth century. Pharmacists would create pills from a combination of medicinal ingredients and a binding agent which they would roll into a "log" or "pipe" and place on the pill cutter. They would then roll the paddle over the base, and the metal grooves in both pieces would come together to cut the medicine into equally sized pills. These pills could be further refined by getting rolled around in a bowl or "pill rounder" to give them a smooth round shape, and were often coated in sugar, gelatin, or even silver or gold. |