UI - 000011

AU - Villet B

TI - Opiates of the mind: The biggest medical discovery since penicillin

AB - LA: English AB: Surveys the progress in the field of neuropharmacology since the 1950s, including

the development or discovery of chlorpromazine, monoamine neurotransmitters, ACTH, enkephalins, and

endorphins. The roles of mitochondria, cell membranes, and the pituitary gland are mentioned. Beta

endorphin's action as a biochemical switch is described, as are the results of its use on animals and humans

for chronic pain, narcotic addiction, schizophrenia, depression, and agoraphobia. Presently, endorphins

represent the most promising area of research for the treatment of many diseases. (PsycLIT Database

Copyright 1980 American Psychological Assn, all rights reserved) KP: progress in neuropharmacology since

1950; use of endorphins for pain & narcotic addiction & mental disorders AN: 63-09307

SO - Atlantic Monthly 1978;241:82-89