Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society cover image

Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society

Psychiatric Drugs

May 3, 2022
Explore the history and impact of psychiatric drugs, including antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. Learn about the accidental discoveries that led to the creation of these drugs. Discover the connection between lithium and Seven Up and its effectiveness in treating bipolar disorder. Delve into the development and marketing of Caledimite, sodium flap roort, and valproic acid for bipolar disorder. Uncover the concept of 'mother's little helper' and the development of tranquilizers as a safer alternative. Reflect on the importance of mental health in a chaotic world and the need to prioritize global problems.
40:46

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Psychotropic drugs primarily impact the body and not just the brain, highlighting the interconnectedness of the body in mental functions.
  • Antihistamines, initially created for allergies, have been repurposed to address mental problems and reduce anxiety.

Deep dives

The Historical Origins of Psychotropic Drugs

Psychotropic drugs, also known as drugs that treat nervous problems, have a long history that dates back to ancient civilizations. In the 1950s, the idea that these drugs act on the brain gained traction, leading to the development of drugs like chlorpromazine, which became the basis for antipsychotics and antidepressants. However, it was discovered that these drugs primarily affect the body rather than just the brain. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like Prozac primarily impact serotonin in the body, with only a small amount affecting the brain. This shows that the effects of psychotropic drugs on mental functions can occur through their interactions with the rest of the body. The understanding of psychotropic drugs evolved over time, with advancements in knowledge about their mechanisms of action and potential uses.

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