Bradley's Benzedrine studies on children with behavioral disorders
1History of Science/History of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA. madeleine.strohl@yale.edu
The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine
|April 1, 2011
Summary
Psychiatrist Charles Bradley observed that Benzedrine sulfate improved behavior and school performance in children. These early findings on amphetamines influenced modern treatments for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Psychopharmacology
Background:
- Explores the historical context of early 20th-century child psychiatry.
- Examines the administration of Benzedrine sulfate by psychiatrist Charles Bradley in 1937.
Observation:
- Benzedrine sulfate was initially administered to alleviate headaches in children.
- Unexpected behavioral improvements were noted, including enhanced school performance and social interactions.
Findings:
- Bradley's studies documented significant positive effects of amphetamines on children's behavior.
- These findings were largely overlooked by the child psychiatry field for decades.
Implications:
- Bradley's work served as a precursor to modern research on stimulant medications.
- His studies influenced the understanding and treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- Shaped objective approaches to diagnosing and managing childhood behavioral disorders.
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