The Fictional Drug: Xanzolam and Its Effects
In The Queen's Gambit, the orphanage residents are routinely given small, green-and-white pills, which the administrators refer to as 'vitamins'. The sedative effects of these pills are immediately apparent, with Beth and the other girls experiencing drowsiness. Beth quickly learns to save her daily dose, taking multiple pills at once to create a hallucinatory state that allows her to visualize chess games on her ceiling. The drug is later explicitly identified as 'xanzolam'.
While the name 'xanzolam' is fictional, it is intentionally reminiscent of real benzodiazepine drug names, such as Xanax (alprazolam), using the '-zolam' suffix common to this class of sedatives. This narrative choice grounds the story in a sense of pharmacological reality while giving the writers creative license for dramatic effect. The drug's portrayal in the show is a highly-addictive central nervous system depressant prescribed for anxiety. When the orphanage bans tranquilizers for children in 1958, Beth experiences withdrawal symptoms, cementing her early dependency.
The Real-World Inspiration: Benzodiazepines and Other Sedatives
The fictional xanzolam is a clear reference to real-life sedatives and tranquilizers from the mid-20th century. During the era in which the series is set (late 1950s and 1960s), the use of tranquilizers was widespread and much less regulated than it is today. Pharmacological experts and historical analysis suggest a few probable candidates for the real-world inspiration:
- Chlordiazepoxide (Librium): A very strong candidate, as it was the first benzodiazepine on the market, approved for medical use in 1960. Librium was often dispensed in half-green capsules, similar to the appearance of xanzolam, and was widely prescribed for anxiety and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. The show's timeline perfectly aligns with the introduction of this drug.
- Meprobamate (Miltown): As one of the first successful minor tranquilizers, Miltown was commonly prescribed to adults and even children in the 1950s to reduce anxiety.
- Diazepam (Valium): While Valium's widespread popularity soared in the 1960s, it followed closely on the heels of Librium and was another groundbreaking benzodiazepine.
The historical context of these drugs is crucial. They were often marketed as a panacea for everyday stress, famously dubbed “mother’s little helper,” and their potential for addiction was frequently downplayed or misunderstood.
Ethical Concerns and Medical Practices of the Era
The show accurately depicts some of the problematic practices surrounding medication in the mid-20th century, particularly within institutional settings like the orphanage. The normalization of giving sedatives to children to make them more compliant or to “even their disposition” was a deeply flawed and unethical practice that contributed to early-onset addiction. The lack of stringent controls on prescription refills, as mentioned in the series when Beth's foster mother requests more pills, was also reflective of the period.
Comparing Xanzolam and Real-World Benzodiazepines
| Feature | Fictional Xanzolam | Real-World Benzodiazepines (e.g., Librium) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Small, green and white pills | Often dispensed in half-green capsules, like Librium. |
| Mechanism | Central nervous system depressant | Enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, producing calming effects. |
| Effects (Portrayed) | Mild euphoria, anxiety relief, hallucinations, drowsiness. | Sedation, muscle relaxation, anxiety relief. |
| Side Effects (Portrayed) | Drowsiness, withdrawal symptoms (itching, skittishness). | Drowsiness, impaired coordination, dependence, and potential for severe withdrawal. |
| Effect on Chess | Initially seems to enhance Beth's ability via visualization | In reality, impairs cognitive function and judgment, reducing focus. |
| Addiction | Highly addictive, triggers early dependency in childhood. | Potential for tolerance, dependence, and addiction with chronic use. |
The Illusion of Enhanced Performance
One of the most profound and cautionary aspects of Beth Harmon's story is the myth of substance-induced genius. Initially, the show might lead viewers to believe the pills enable her unique ability to visualize the chessboard on the ceiling. However, as the series progresses and her addiction deepens, it becomes clear that the drugs are a crutch, a way to self-medicate and cope with stress and trauma, rather than a performance enhancer.
As her drug and alcohol abuse escalates, her performance suffers. Her ultimate success is achieved when she embraces sobriety and relies on her own intrinsic talent and determination. This is a crucial distinction and a powerful message, directly countering the misconception that addiction is linked to heightened intelligence.
The Role of Addiction in Beth's Journey
The Queen's Gambit uses Beth's addiction to tranquilizers and later alcohol as a central theme, exploring the trauma and self-medication behind her substance abuse. The show's portrayal of high-functioning addiction, where Beth continues to excel professionally despite her struggles, resonates with many real-world stories. However, the depiction of her recovery is a point of contention for some, who argue it was too swift and oversimplified for dramatic purposes. Real-world addiction and recovery are often a much longer, more difficult, and non-linear process.
Ultimately, Beth's battle with addiction is not just a personal struggle but also a reflection of the societal factors that enabled and perpetuated substance abuse during that era. Her journey towards sobriety and self-acceptance is what allows her to become a truly great chess player, demonstrating that true genius comes from within, not from a pill. For resources on addiction and recovery, the Banyan Treatment Center provides helpful information.
Conclusion: The Drug's True Role
In conclusion, while the specific drug 'xanzolam' was fictionalized for The Queen's Gambit, the pharmacology and addiction issues it represents are very real and historically accurate. The green pills serve as a powerful metaphor for Beth Harmon's inner turmoil, her trauma, and the societal negligence of the mid-20th century. By showcasing her descent into addiction and her eventual rise to victory through sobriety, the series delivers a nuanced and compelling narrative about resilience and the illusion of shortcuts to greatness. The pills were never the source of her genius, but rather a hurdle she had to overcome to fully realize her potential.
