The introduction of neuroleptics: a psychiatric revolution

Abstract

In the commentary below, Robert Cancro, M.D., discusses the article on page 327, reprinted from the February 1956 issue of Mental Hospitals, describing how hospitals were dealing with clinical and administrative issues surrounding the use of neuroleptic drugs. Although Dr. Cancro considers the introduction of neuroleptics one of the great psychiatric revolutions of the 20th century, he believes that the changes in patient care and treatment following their introduction have not always been positive.