[rocket]

Originally Posted by luvtolean

I've read it in books type in "performance and enhancing and drugs and war" and I bet you get a bunch of hits. I know amphetamines were huge in WWII.

I've read about chewing coca leaves in old times, all sorts of stuff. LSD was tried to make guys "supermen"

BTW, don't marginalize nicotine and caffeine. They have very significant psychotropic effects.

Not entirely related but the Germans in WWII were giving their soldiers steroids to increase strength and aggression.

[vtr996]

Originally Posted by zenblader

To save me some searching, 'cuz I tend to be lazy, could you supply me with a source that confirms sanctioned drug (and I don't mean strong coffee or smokes) use by the military before the go-pill to pilots?

I don't want to split hairs regarding drug use or the degree of impairment. I'll stick by my assertion that no one I know would want a commercial pilot on amphetamines, nor a cop, nor a Surgeon, nor anyone whose decision making process includes "life and death" issues. Just because the military says its safe, don't make it so.

Stimulant Use in Extended Flight Operations

[nomad]

Interesting document. Maybe I need some right now to keep me awake...

Anyway, the document talks about enhancing their skills but not judgement.

If you'll look back at my discussions, even without the excuse of drugs interfering with their judgement, I still say they made a bad call and should live with the consequences.

[zenblader]

Originally Posted by luvtolean

I've read it in books type in "performance and enhancing and drugs and war" and I bet you get a bunch of hits. I know amphetamines were huge in WWII.

I've read about chewing coca leaves in old times, all sorts of stuff. LSD was tried to make guys "supermen"

BTW, don't marginalize nicotine and caffeine. They have very significant psychotropic effects.

I drove cross country when I was 18 and didn't sleep at all. Downed Dr.Pepper and no-doz, lived on Beef Jerky. I was sick for three days after. No, I don't discount the effect of caffeine for sure. I know that many riders warn against using caffeine to stay awake while riding long distance. Masks the natural fatigue that should signal a stop for rest and recoop.
IMO, those who advocate using drugs to stimulate performance and endurance in combat situations should consider whether a mission requiring such measures is asking too much of a human being. Don't drug our pilots. Give them missions they can accomplish within normal parameters of human ability.