Abstract
Certain effects produced by psychotropic drugs in man are examined in order to illustrate the means by which methods of treatment based on psychotherapy can be modified or improved.
It is suggested that tranquillizing drugs may be used in association with psychotherapy in four ways: for controlling symptoms; for releasing unconscious material; for controlling disturbances associated with such release; and for removing inhibitions. These ways are critically examined, and in particular the use of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in psychological medicine is dealt with in some detail. The psychological mechanism of action of LSD is examined.
Some space is devoted to the use of the major tranquillizers in the treatment of psychosis, and the possibility of managing major psychoses outside the mental hospital is examined.
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Selected References
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