title: [The development of modern psychopharmacology. Historical aspects of therapeutic claims and capabilities].
abstract: Even though psychopharmacology is an integral part of modern psychiatric treatment, it remains a controversial topic in public discourse. Historical analysis is an important tool, which gives us a more realistic view of the theoretical underpinnings and therapeutic potential of psychopharmacological treatments. Not surprisingly, a historical survey of claims and treatments shows that psychopharmacological developments are closely connected to the intellectual framework of the period. While drugs have been used to treat psychopathological disorders since ancient times, post-19th century modern psychopharmacology has been characterized by its reliance on science. This study examines this reliance on scientific disciplines, such as chemistry and anesthesiology, by examining case studies such as the introduction of new psychopharmacological techniques. For instance, the introduction in 1869 of the first synthetic sedative, chloral hydrate, clearly illustrates several trends in modern psychopharmacology. The successful introductions of antipsychotic and antidepressant drugs in the late 1950s have also been important milestones, which were instrumental in breaking down the skepticism of clinical psychiatrists.
authors.forename: M M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Weber
mesh_terms: D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D011600:Psychopharmacology / Q000266:history*; D013812:Therapeutics / Q000266:history*