Interrogation drug

A military interrogation drug is used on Gaius Baltar after his return to Galactica, once he has demonstrated that he is basically unaffected by various other interrogation techniques (Taking a Break From All Your Worries).

It is Adama's suggestion to use the drug, described as a hallucinogen that creates a high level of anxiety in the subject, generating a feeling that their survival is at stake.

The drug is injected into the subject's neck, and appears to take effect relatively quickly. Initially the subject is rendered unconscious, but soon awakes in a pliable state.

Adama shows some skill in using this method, likely having been trained in its use. Dr. Cottle, on the other hand, appears to disapprove, terminating the session when Baltar begins to go into distress, calling it a "freak show".

Notes

• The secret experiments with hallucinogenic drugs for purposes of interrogation parallels the CIA's MK ULTRA program from the 1960's and 1970's. In that program, LSD was investigated as a possible "truth serum".