Pharmacological torture

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Pharmacological torture is a form of torture that involves the use of drugs or medications to inflict pain, suffering, or psychological harm on a person. This method of torture is often used by authoritarian regimes, military forces, or other entities seeking to extract information, coerce confessions, or control individuals.

History[edit | edit source]

The use of pharmacological torture dates back to ancient times, with instances of substances such as hemlock being used to execute prisoners in ancient Greece. In more recent history, the practice has been documented in various conflicts and human rights abuses around the world.

Methods[edit | edit source]

Pharmacological torture can take various forms, including the administration of psychotropic drugs to induce confusion or hallucinations, the use of sedatives to disorient and incapacitate individuals, or the withholding of necessary medications to induce pain or suffering.

Effects[edit | edit source]

The effects of pharmacological torture can be severe and long-lasting. Victims may experience physical harm, psychological trauma, and lasting mental health issues as a result of the drugs administered to them. In some cases, the effects of pharmacological torture can be irreversible.

International Law[edit | edit source]

The use of pharmacological torture is considered a violation of international human rights law, including the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Perpetrators of pharmacological torture can be held accountable under international law for their actions.

Prevention and Advocacy[edit | edit source]

Efforts to prevent and combat pharmacological torture include advocacy by human rights organizations, monitoring of detention facilities, and raising awareness of the issue within the international community. It is essential for governments and organizations to uphold human rights standards and ensure that individuals are not subjected to torture in any form.

See also[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD