Adolf Hitler, the notorious dictator of Nazi Germany who was responsible genocide of about six million Jews and the death of millions of others, was indeed a heavy user of various mind-altering drugs throughout his reign, particularly during World War II. His drug use escalated over time and had a significant impact on his health and decision-making. This isn’t a conspiracy theory or an opinion—it’s a historical fact.
It’s utterly astonishing to learn about the extent of medications prescribed to Hitler during the war years by his personal physician, Theodor Morell.
Imagine taking 90 different medications, including amphetamines, barbiturates, opiates, and even cocaine! His daily regimen – for years – was a cocktail of substances for chronic stomach issues and other ailments.
Footage of Adolf Hitler at the 1936 olympics where he is thought to be high on drugs.
— Morbid Knowledge (@Morbidful) March 23, 2024
Author Norman Ohler claims that Hitler relied heavily on a mixture of cocaine and opioids.
“Hitler needed those highs to substitute [for] his natural charisma, which … he had lost in the… pic.twitter.com/6VIqpi10gH
Hitler’s drug consumption can be divided into three main stages:
1936-1941
Initially, Hitler primarily received vitamin and glucose injections from his personal physician, Dr. Theodor Morell.
Fall 1941-Summer 1943
As the war against Russia turned unfavorable, Hitler began taking hormones, steroids, and barbiturates. He also received animal hormone injections and pig liver extracts to combat illness.
Summer 1943 to Spring 1945
Hitler’s drug use intensified, incorporating harder substances such as opioids and cocaine.
Did Hitler’s drug use make him antisemitic?
No, He was hateful, racist, and antisemitic long before he became an addict.
Hitler’s drug regimen included a wide array of substances:
Opioids: Eukodal (oxycodone) and other morphine-based painkillers.
Stimulants: Pervitin (methamphetamine) and cocaine.
Hormones and steroids: Testosterone and various animal-derived hormones.
Barbiturates: Used as sedatives.
Other substances: Vitamins, glucose, and various “tonics.”
Impact on Hitler’s Health and Behavior
The extensive drug use had profound effects on Hitler’s physical and mental state. By 1945, Hitler experienced intense tremors, rotting teeth, and extreme shaking, consistent with Parkinson’s Disease. The drugs contributed to mood swings, paranoia, and delusional thinking. Hitler also became physically dependent on opioids, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when supplies ran low.
Did Hitler have a serious case of Parkinson’s disease at the time of his death?
Yes. He had advanced Parkinson’s. It’s not known how much his drug use contributed to the ailment.
Implications for Nazi Germany
Hitler’s drug use had far-reaching consequences. For starters, his drug-induced state may have influenced irrational military tactics, particularly during the later stages of the war. Nazi leadership worked to keep Hitler’s drug use secret, as it contradicted the image of purity and health they promoted.
Drug use, particularly methamphetamine, became endemic in German society and the military during this period. In fact, several high-ranking Nazi officials in addition to Hitler struggled with drug addictions as the widespread use of drugs in Nazi Germany extended to the upper echelons of the party and military leadership.
Hitler’s drug use undeniably had profound implications. His reliance on drugs likely contributed to his erratic military decisions, especially as the war progressed. The Nazi leadership went to great lengths to conceal Hitler’s addiction because it starkly contradicted their propaganda of purity and health. Moreover, methamphetamine use became widespread in German society and the military during this time, further highlighting the detrimental impact of such substance abuse on both individual leaders and broader societal norms.
Did Hitler’s drug use make him delusional and lead to poor decisions in World War II?
Yes. Several of his top generals unsuccessfully plotted to assassinate him due to the extremely detrimental impact of his decisions during the war. He repeatedly ignored the advice of experienced military brass and led his soldiers into impossible situations, resulting in the death of many. Moreover, many were aware the war was lost two years before it ended but Hitler refused to surrender or negotiate, insisting providence was on his side.
In conclusion, Hitler’s extensive drug use, which escalated significantly from 1941 to 1945, played a crucial role in shaping his behavior, health, and decision-making during World War II. This aspect of his life adds another layer of complexity to understanding the actions and downfall of one of history’s most infamous dictators.