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Dimensions of the LSD, methylphenidate and chlordiazepoxide experiences

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Summary

Through the retrospective use of the 156 item DWM Card Sort, the experiences from a single intravenous dose of 200 mcg of LSD, 75 mg of methylphenidate (Ritalin) and 75 mg of chlordiazepoxide (Librium) were compared in a population of 99 chronic male alcoholics treated in an “LSD setting” in a double-blind study. Surprisingly, 96 of the 156 items proved significantly different among the 3 groups. LSD was unique in producing Sensory and Perceptual Distortions (including Hallucinations or Illusions), and Mystical, Religious or Paranormal Sensations. However, contrary to expectation, LSD did not uniquely produce the traditional “therapeutic” experience, but appeared to be surpassed in that area by methylphenidate. Both drugs also produced some anxiety, while chlordiazepoxide produced relaxation, and enhanced music appreciation.

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Additional information

This investigation was supported by PHS Research Grant No. MH-11272 from the National Institute of Mental Health and the Vista Hill Psychiatric Foundation, San Diego, California. Further assistance was given by the Alcoholism Research Clinic, Department of Psychiatry, U.C.L.A. Center for the Health Sciences, Los Angeles, California. Computations were done at the Health Sciences Computing Facility under N.I.H. Grant No. FR-3. The authors are also indebted to the Scientific Advisory Council of the Licensed Beverage Industries, California; and to the San Diego County Department of Honor Camps. We also wish to extend great thanks to Mr. James C. Reed, Jr., Director of the Department of Honor Camps. In addition we wish to express our gratitude to the Staff at the Viejas Treatment Center, and to the Mesa Vista Hospital Volunteer Aides; without their continued enthusiasm and cooperation, this project would not have been possible.

An Appendix has been submitted for publication to the American Documentation Institute, a Section of the Library of Congress.

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Ditman, K.S., Moss, T., Forgy, E.W. et al. Dimensions of the LSD, methylphenidate and chlordiazepoxide experiences. Psychopharmacologia 14, 1–11 (1969). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00401528

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00401528

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