Effect of Tranquilizers on Medical Morbidity and Mortality in a Mental Hospital

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Abstract
Among 1,324 patients admitted from a psychiatric service to a medical service during an 8-year period, there were 236 deaths. The first 4 years (pretranquilizer Period A, 1952-1955) were compared with the last 4 years (Period B, 1956-1959) when most patients were receiving tranquilizers. While some causes of sickness and death were unaffected, 3 significant differences were found, namely an increased morbidity and mortality from arteriosclerotic heart disease and cancer, an increase in suicides, and the appearance of known complications from drug therapy during Period B. It was not always possible to link these changes to the use of tranquilizers, but it was noted that 90% of the patients who committed suicide during Period B had been receiving tranquilizers.

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