A Guide to Phencyclidine

Phencyclidine is believed to have many effects throughout the brain. Primarily it has a strong affinity for the NMDA receptor where it binds and blocks it. This causes reduced activity of glutamate, which is an excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain that deals with memory and cognitive function.

Additionally, PCP deals with serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine modulators. The drug blocks the reuptake of these neurotransmitters so that more is readily available in the brain. Since, these chemicals are associated with reward, alertness and happiness, the mechanism of action and drug effects correspond.

PCP also has stimulatory effects on the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase. This enzyme works to convert tyrosine to molecules like dopamine and norepinephrine. In turn, even more dopamine and norepinephrine become available in the brain.

Panel Drug Test Kit. Amazon. Accessed Oct. 13, 2022.

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On the matter of PCP, I believe that this drug had some promising effects as an anesthetic. However, due to its ability to cause aggression and irritability, it is rightfully not used often. With this in consideration, a Schedule II designation is appropriate because PCP obviously has a high abuse potential with little therapeutic use. ~ J. Lindsey

At around 2-5 mg of PCP, effects of the drug are often described as euphoria, unpredictability, disorientation, and aggression. By the time the dose is increased to 25 mg, PCP becomes a lot more toxic. 25 mg of PCP is associated with coma, hyperthermia, convulsions and death.

The effects of PCP can be magnified when the drug is used alongside other drugs with similar effects. For example, severe hypotension can result from the combined use of PCP and chlorpromazine. In addition, drugs like barbiturates and alcohol become much stronger CNS depressants in the presence of alcohol.

PCP is an illegal substance. It is recognized as a Schedule II drug according to the Controlled Substance Act. This means that the drug has a very high potential for abuse. The conscious possession of PCP is automatically a level 6 felony which constitutes at least a 6-month sentence.

PCP can be monitored through several different drug tests. These include urine, hair, and saliva drug tests. Testing the urine will detect PCP that has been in the system for five hours to two weeks. The hair test will detect PCP that has been in the system for up to 90 days. The saliva test will detect the drug for up to three days after use.

References

The PCP story. California Narcotics Officers’ Association. Published Oct 13, 2012. Accessed Oct 13, 2012. https:// www.cnoa.org/documents/NPCP.pdf

A parent’s guide: drug slang. Department of Behavioral Healthcare Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals. Published Oct 2015. Accessed Oct 13, 2012. Dhttps:// bhddh.ri.gov/sites/g/files/xkgbur411/files/docu ments/ Drug-Slang- guide-FINAL.pdf

Bey T, Patel A. Phencyclidine intoxication and adverse effects: a clinical and pharmacological review of an illicit drug. Cal J Emerg Med. Feb 2007;8(1):9-14.

Daubner SC, Le T, Wang S. Tyrosine hydroxylase and regulation of dopamine synthesis. Arch Biochem Biophys. Apr 1, 2011;508(1):1-12. doi: 10.1016/j.abb.2010.12.017

Effects and Dangers of PCP use. American Addiction Centers. Updated Sep 9, 2022. Accessed Oct 13, 2022. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/pcp-abuse/effectsand-dangers https://www.defendingfortwayne.com/practiceareas/drug-crimes/pcp/

Fort Wayne attorney defends PCP charges throughout Indiana. The Law Offices of Ryan E. Lackey. Accessed Oct 13, 2022.

Phencyclidine (PCP) Drug Test. National Drug Screening, Inc. Accessed Oct 13, 2022. https://www.nationaldrugscreening.com/phencyclidinedrug-test/

Finding Professional PCP Addiction Treatment. New Beginnings. Accessed Oct. 13, 2022. https://www.newbeginningsdrugrehab.org/pcp-rehab/