Sedatives and the Alcoholic
Sedatives and the Alcoholic
Second Edition — Fourth Printing, September 1958
Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc.
Offered here is an original 1958 Fourth Printing of the Second Edition of Sedatives and the Alcoholic, an early Alcoholics Anonymous pamphlet addressing the risks posed by sedatives to alcoholics and members of A.A.
Originally copyrighted in 1953 by Works Publishing, Inc., the pamphlet was issued in a Second Edition in 1956. This example is identified as the Fourth Printing, with the printing code 10M—9-58, dating it to September 1958.
The pamphlet reflects an issue receiving increasing attention during the 1950s—the use of sleeping pills, barbiturates, and other sedatives by alcoholics. Drawing upon the experience of A.A. members, it warns against substituting sedatives for alcohol and discusses the potential threat such drugs posed to continued sobriety.
Its central message is stated clearly:
“Freedom from alcohol is only partial freedom for the alcoholic who persists in the use of sedatives or turns to them as a substitute for alcohol.”
The pamphlet also includes the Twelve Suggested Steps, Twelve Traditions, and a period list of General Service Conference-approved A.A. publications.
Pamphlet Details
Title: Sedatives and the Alcoholic
Publisher: Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc.
Copyright: 1953, Works Publishing, Inc.
Edition: Second Edition, 1956
Printing: Fourth Printing
Date: September 1958
Printing Code: 10M—9-58
Format: Stapled pamphlet
Approval: General Service Conference of A.A.
Condition
Very good overall condition. The bright red front cover retains strong color with light rubbing and edge wear. Interior pages are clean and well preserved with light age toning.
The rear cover shows several areas of staining and discoloration. Original staples remain present and the pamphlet is intact.
Please review all photographs carefully for the exact condition.
Collector Significance
An interesting piece of 1950s Alcoholics Anonymous literature, documenting A.A.’s early discussion of sedative use and its potential effect on sobriety.
This September 1958 Fourth Printing of the Second Edition is an appealing addition to a collection of early A.A. pamphlets and historical recovery literature.
