Erowid References Database
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Matsuyama SS, Jarvik LF.
“Cytogenetic Effects of Psychoactive Drugs”.
Mod.Probl.Pharmacopsychiat.. 1975;10:99-132.
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Abstract
Introduction The consumption of phammacological agents for pleasure and therapeutic purposes dates far back in history. Initially, these agents were limited to naturally occurring compounds. Today, chemically synthesized psychoactive agents have added greatly to the abundance and availability of drugs for the modification of human behavior. Within our generation, phammacotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of major mental disorders (psychoses). Pharmacological agents are also used by nonpsychotic persons to relieve tension, anxiety, and depression, and merely to enhance 'normalš experiences. Possible deleterious effects of these agents on the hereditary material of man are of serious concem. Reports suggesting damage to chromosomes (breaks and/or other abnommalities) as a result of drug ingestion have been sufficiently disturbing to warrant testing for possible mutagenic, teratogenic, and/or carcinogenic effects. According to Moorhead et al. (1971), an elevated frequency of chromosomal aberrations may be considered a reliable indicator of the presence of genetic changes. It has become increasingly clear that gross chromosomal aberrations are associated with various fomms of malignant neoplasia. For example, patients who underwent arteriography with thorium dioxide, a radioactive substance contain. ing isotopes of the thorium-232 decay series, show a high frequency of chromo -
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| Notes # : Genetics and psychopharmacology |
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