Jean Delay

Jean Delay

Born	14 November 1907
Birth place	Bayonne, France
Died	29 May 1987
Place of death	Paris, France
Nationality	French
Known for	Introduction of chlorpromazine in psychiatry
Awards	Lasker-DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award

Jean Delay (14 November 1907 – 29 May 1987) was a prominent French psychiatrist, neurologist, and writer, renowned for his pioneering work in the field of psychopharmacology. He is best known for his role in the introduction of chlorpromazine as a treatment for schizophrenia, which marked a significant advancement in psychiatric medicine.

Early Life and Education

Jean Delay was born in Bayonne, France, into a family with a strong academic background. He pursued his medical studies at the University of Paris, where he developed an interest in psychiatry and neurology. Delay completed his medical degree in 1935 and subsequently trained under several notable figures in the field, including Henri Ey.

Career

Delay began his career at the Hôpital Sainte-Anne in Paris, where he worked alongside Pierre Deniker. Together, they conducted groundbreaking research on the effects of chlorpromazine, a drug initially developed as an antihistamine. Their work demonstrated the drug's efficacy in reducing psychotic symptoms, leading to its widespread adoption in psychiatric treatment.

Contributions to Psychiatry

Jean Delay's contributions to psychiatry extend beyond the introduction of chlorpromazine. He was instrumental in the development of the concept of "psychopharmacology," a term he coined to describe the study of drug-induced changes in mood, sensation, thinking, and behavior. Delay's research laid the foundation for modern psychiatric medication management.

Academic and Literary Work

In addition to his medical career, Delay was an accomplished writer and a member of the Académie française. He authored several novels and essays, exploring themes related to psychology and human behavior. His literary work earned him recognition in both the scientific and literary communities.

Legacy

Jean Delay's legacy in psychiatry is profound. His work on chlorpromazine revolutionized the treatment of mental illness, providing a pharmacological option that significantly improved patient outcomes. Delay's influence extends to his students and colleagues, many of whom continued to advance the field of psychopharmacology.

Also see

• Chlorpromazine
• Psychopharmacology
• Henri Ey
• Pierre Deniker
• Académie française