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The Therapeutic Value of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide in Mental Illness

J. D. A. Whitelaw, M.B., B.S., Assistant Medical Officer

Powick Mental Hospital, near Worcester

ABSTRACT

The results of an investigation in which Lysergic Acid Diethylamide was given to 36 patients suffering from psychoneuroses and allied conditions are described. After a brief review of the relevant literature the effects of the drug from the observer's and patient's points of view are dealt with and emphasis is laid on the property possessed by the drug of disturbing the unconscious so that repressed memories are relived with remarkable clarity and a change to an infantile body image. The theory is advanced that LSD 25 exerts a selective action on the genes which may be the "seat" of repressed memories. Results of treatment in the 36 patients are then described and the paper concludes with a detailed account of the authors' technique of treatment.

Received for publication November 26, 1953.