Initial Poisonings from the Abuse of Psychic Stimulants: Jules Héricourt’s Perspective

This study critically examines the construction of medical conceptions regarding the so-called “early intoxications” in the early twentieth century. Its objectives focus on understanding how intoxications from psychoactive stimulants – such as alcohol, tobacco, tea, and coffee – as well as carbon monoxide, were conceptualized. A historical-documentary analysis of medical sources from the period was conducted, prioritizing scientific and clinical texts that describe pathophysiological mechanisms, symptomatology, and explanatory frameworks. The results indicate that these intoxications were understood as gradual, often silent processes capable of weakening the body and reducing its resistance to other pathologies. In the case of carbon monoxide, particular attention was given to the early identification of chronic exposures in domestic and urban contexts. It is concluded that the historical analysis of these formulations contributes to an understanding of the origins of current public health and toxicology models, emphasizing the importance of integrating historical perspectives into contemporary scientific reflection.