H. Houston Merritt

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H. Houston Merritt

Birth date	January 12, 1902
Birth place	Wilmington, North Carolina, USA
Died	January 9, 1979
Place of death	New York City, New York, USA
Nationality	American
Known for	Research on epilepsy, discovery of phenytoin

Hiram Houston Merritt Jr. (January 12, 1902 – January 9, 1979) was a pioneering American neurologist best known for his contributions to the treatment of epilepsy and his role in the discovery of phenytoin, an anticonvulsant medication. Merritt's work significantly advanced the field of neurology and improved the quality of life for patients with seizure disorders.

Early Life and Education

H. Houston Merritt was born in Wilmington, North Carolina. He pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of North Carolina and later attended Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he earned his medical degree in 1926. During his time at Johns Hopkins, Merritt developed a keen interest in neurology, which would shape his future career.

Career and Research

After completing his medical degree, Merritt trained in neurology at the Boston City Hospital and the Massachusetts General Hospital. He then joined the faculty at Harvard Medical School, where he began his groundbreaking research on epilepsy.

In the late 1930s, Merritt collaborated with Tracy Putnam to investigate new treatments for epilepsy. Their research led to the discovery of phenytoin (Dilantin), which became the first non-sedative anticonvulsant drug. This discovery was a major breakthrough in the treatment of epilepsy, as it provided an effective means of controlling seizures without the sedative effects of previous treatments.

Merritt's work extended beyond epilepsy. He made significant contributions to the understanding of various neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis and cerebrovascular disease. His research and clinical work helped establish neurology as a distinct medical specialty.

Academic Leadership

In 1948, Merritt was appointed as the Chair of the Department of Neurology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. Under his leadership, the department became a leading center for neurological research and education. Merritt was instrumental in training a generation of neurologists and advancing the field through his mentorship and academic leadership.

Legacy and Honors

Merritt's contributions to neurology were widely recognized. He received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Lasker-DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award. His textbook, "Merritt's Neurology," remains a seminal work in the field and is used by medical students and professionals worldwide.

Merritt passed away on January 9, 1979, in New York City, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and excellence in neurology.

Also see

• Phenytoin
• Epilepsy
• Neurology
• Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons
• Lasker-DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award