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'''Phencyclidine''' (also known as '''PCP''', '''Angel Dust''', '''Sherm''', and '''Sernyl''')<ref>PCP Fast Facts | http://www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs4/4440/</ref> is a classical [[psychoactive class::dissociative]] substance of the [[chemical class::arylcyclohexylamine]] class. It is one of the oldest and most notorious dissociatives, known for its potent effects and reputation as an established "street drug" (along with [[cocaine]] and [[heroin]]).<ref>{{cite book | vauthors=((Nestler, E. J.)), ((Hyman, S. E.)), ((Malenka, R. C.)) | date= 2009 | title=Molecular neuropharmacology: a foundation for clinical neuroscience | publisher=McGraw-Hill Medical | edition=2nd ed | isbn=9780071481274}}</ref> It produces its effects by [[NMDA receptor antagonist|blocking the NMDA receptor]].<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Kapur, S.)), ((Seeman, P.)) | journal=Molecular Psychiatry | title=NMDA receptor antagonists ketamine and PCP have direct effects on the dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2 receptors—implications for models of schizophrenia | volume=7 | issue=8 | pages=837–844 | date= September 2002 | url=https://www.nature.com/articles/4001093 | issn=1476-5578 | doi=10.1038/sj.mp.4001093}}</ref>
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| ''[[PCP/Summary|Summary sheet: PCP]]''
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'''Phencyclidine''' (also known as '''PCP''', '''Angel Dust''', or '''Sernyl''') <ref>PCP Fast Facts | http://www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs4/4440/</ref> is a [[dissociative]] drug. PCP was brought to market in the 1950s as an [[Pain relief|anesthetic]] pharmaceutical drug but was taken off the market in 1965 due to the high prevalence of dissociative [[hallucinogenic]] side effects. Likewise [[ketamine]] was discovered by Parke-Davis researchers as a better-tolerated derivative for use as an anesthetic pharmaceutical drug. Since this time a number of synthetic derivatives of PCP have been sold as dissociative drugs for recreational and non-medical use.<ref>From PCP to MXE: a comprehensive review of the non-medical use of dissociative drugs | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24678061</ref>
In chemical structure, PCP is a member of the [[arylcyclohexylamine]] class, and, in pharmacology, it is a member of the family of dissociative anesthetics. PCP works primarily as an [[NMDA receptor antagonist]], where it blocks the activity of the NMDA receptor. As an addictive drug, PCP is associated with compulsive abuse.<ref>Malenka RC, Nestler EJ, Hyman SE (2009). "Chapter 15: Reinforcement and Addictive Disorders". In Sydor A, Brown RY. Molecular Neuropharmacology: A Foundation for Clinical Neuroscience (2nd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Medical. pp. 374–375. ISBN 9780071481274. </ref><ref>From PCP to MXE: a comprehensive review of the non-medical use of dissociative drugs | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24678061</ref><ref>Drugs and Behavior, 4th Edition, McKim, William A., ISBN 0-13-083146-8</ref><ref>NMDA receptor antagonists ketamine and PCP have direct effects on the dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2receptors¾implications for models of schizophrenia | http://www.nature.com/mp/journal/v7/n8/full/4001093a.html</ref>
First marketed in the 1950s as an anesthetic pharmaceutical drug, PCP was taken off the market in 1965 due to the high rate of [[hallucinogenic]] side effects. It emerged as a recreational substance in mid-1967, under the name "The Peace Pill".<ref>"Peace Pill". Microgram. Bureau of Drug Abuse Control. Jan 1968. 1(3):p1 (Erowid.org) | https://erowid.org/library/periodicals/microgram/microgram_1968_01_v01n03.pdf</ref><ref>"Sweet Streetfact's Lowdown on Low Dope Highs!". Berkeley Tribe, September 10-16, 1971. p12 (Independent Voices) | https://www.jstor.org/stable/community.28033860?seq=12</ref> Since this time, a number of synthetic derivatives of PCP (e.g. [[3-MeO-PCP]], [[4-MeO-PCP]], [[MXE]]) have been sold as dissociative drugs for both recreational and non-medical use.<ref name="morris">{{cite journal | vauthors=((Morris, H.)), ((Wallach, J.)) | journal=Drug Testing and Analysis | title=From PCP to MXE: a comprehensive review of the non-medical use of dissociative drugs | volume=6 | issue=7–8 | pages=614–632 | date= August 2014 | issn=1942-7611 | doi=10.1002/dta.1620}}</ref>
[[Subjective effects]] include [[motor control loss]], [[pain relief]], [[internal hallucinations]], [[memory suppression]], [[conceptual thinking]], [[euphoria]], and [[depersonalization]] / [[disconnective effects|dissociation]]. Routes of administration include [[oral]], [[Routes of administration#Smoking|smoking]], [[insufflation]] or [[Routes of administration#Injection|injection]].<ref>{{Citation | vauthors=((Abuse, N. I. on D.)) | year=2019 | title=Hallucinogens DrugFacts | url=https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/hallucinogens}}</ref> The effects are among the most potent and long-lasting in the class. Additionally, PCP is reported to have strong [[stimulation|stimulating]] effects that can promote [[anxiety]] and motor activity.
PCP has high abuse potential. [[Compulsive redosing]] has been reported, as well as psychological dependence following chronic use (i.e. high dose, repeated administration). Additionally, chronic use has been associated with numerous manifestations of toxicity (see [[PCP#Toxicity and harm potential|this section]] for more information).{{citation needed}} It is highly advised to use [[harm reduction practices]] if using this substance.
==History and culture==
After being discovered in 1926, PCP was developed as a general anesthetic in the 1950s because it could achieve analgesia and anesthesia with minimal cardiovascular and respiratory suppression. It was marketed under the name Sernyl and began to be used in surgical procedures in 1963.<ref name="Journey">{{cite book | vauthors=((Journey, J. D.)), ((Bentley, T. P.)) | date= 2022 | chapter=StatPearls | title=Phencyclidine Toxicity | publisher=StatPearls Publishing | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507865/}}</ref>
By 1967, it was discontinued due to postoperative dysphoria and hallucinations. After 1967, it was limited to veterinary use. Also in the 1960s, PCP began to be illegally manufactured in laboratories and emerged as a popular street drug in San Francisco. In the 1970s, PCP use became widespread.<ref name="Journey" />
===Common names===
Common street names for PCP are the peace pill, angel dust, sherm sticks, peeps, crystal joints, rocket fuel, sawgrass, zoom, the sheets, and elephant tranquilizer.<ref name="Journey" />
As a recreational drug, PCP may be ingested [[orally]], [[Routes of administration#Smoking|smoked]], [[insufflated]] or [[Routes of administration#Injection|injected]].<ref>http://drugabuse.gov/infofacts/hallucinogens.html</ref>
==Chemistry==
==Chemistry==
PCP, or Phencyclidine, is a synthetic dissociative of the arylcyclohexylamine class. PCP contains cyclohexane, a six member saturated ring, bonded to two additional rings at R<sub>1</sub>. One of these rings is a piperidine ring, a nitrogenous six member ring, bonded at it's nitrogen group. The other ring is an aromatic phenyl ring. PCP is an initialism, named from the first letters of the three constituent rings '''p'''iperdine, '''c'''yclohexane and '''p'''henyl.
PCP, or phencyclidine, is a synthetic dissociative of the arylcyclohexylamine class. PCP contains cyclohexane, a six-member saturated ring, bonded to two additional rings at R<sub>1</sub>. One of these rings is a piperidine ring, a nitrogenous six member ring, bonded at its nitrogen group. The other ring is an aromatic phenyl ring. PCP is an initialism named from the first letters of the three constituent rings '''p'''henyl, '''c'''yclohexane and '''p'''iperidine.
==Pharmacology==
==Pharmacology==
{{Main|NMDA receptor antagonist}}
{{Further|NMDA receptor antagonist}}
PCP acts as an [[NMDA receptor antagonist]]. NMDA receptors allow for electrical signals to pass between neurons in the brain and spinal column; for the signals to pass, the receptor must be open. NMDA receptor antagonists close the NMDA receptors by blocking them. This disconnection of neurons leads to loss of feeling, difficulty moving, and eventually an almost identical equivalent of the famous “[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K-hole k-hole]”.
PCP acts as an [[NMDA receptor antagonist]]. NMDA receptors allow for electrical signals to pass between neurons in the brain and spinal column; for the signals to pass, the receptor must be open. Dissociatives close the NMDA receptors by blocking them. This disconnection of neurons leads to loss of feeling, difficulty moving, and eventually an almost identical equivalent of the notorious “[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K-hole k-hole].”
Unlike ketamine, PCP also shows appreciable affinity for antagonizing the PCP2 glutamate receptor.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Rothman, R.)) | title=PCP site 2: A high affinity MK-801-insensitive phencyclidine binding site | date=1 July 1994 | url=https://zenodo.org/record/1258623 | doi=10.1016/0892-0362(94)90022-1}}</ref> PCP also acts as a sigma-2 agonist and mild serotonin reuptake inhibitor.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Roth, B. L.)), ((Gibbons, S.)), ((Arunotayanun, W.)), ((Huang, X.-P.)), ((Setola, V.)), ((Treble, R.)), ((Iversen, L.)) | journal=PLoS ONE | title=The Ketamine Analogue Methoxetamine and 3- and 4-Methoxy Analogues of Phencyclidine Are High Affinity and Selective Ligands for the Glutamate NMDA Receptor | volume=8 | issue=3 | pages=e59334 | date=19 March 2013 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3602154/ | issn=1932-6203 | doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0059334}}</ref> It has also been characterized as a potent D2 dopamine agonist but not a dopamine reuptake inhibitor in humans.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Seeman, P.)), ((Guan, H.-C.)), ((Hirbec, H.)) | journal=Synapse (New York, N.Y.) | title=Dopamine D2High receptors stimulated by phencyclidines, lysergic acid diethylamide, salvinorin A, and modafinil | volume=63 | issue=8 | pages=698–704 | date= August 2009 | issn=1098-2396 | doi=10.1002/syn.20647}}</ref> This D2 dopamine agonism contributes to the infamous stimulation, euphoria, and mania of PCP.
PCP also acts as a [[dopamine]]-[[Reuptake Inhibitor|reuptake inhibitor]] and a [[serotonin]] [[reuptake inhibitor]] with alleged [[Opioid receptors|µ-opioid]] affinity and typical [[Dissociatives#Subjective effects|dissociative]] effects. This provides an explanation for its euphoric and often stimulating effects.
==Subjective effects==
==Subjective effects==
{{EffectStub}}
{{EffectStub}}
The effects listed below are based upon the [[subjective effects index]] and personal experiences of [[PsychonautWiki]] [[Special:TopUsers|contributors]]. The listed effects will rarely (if ever) occur all at once, but heavier dosages will increase the chances and are more likely to induce a full range of effects.
PCP is considerably more likely to induce [[psychosis]] and [[mania]] than other dissociatives and is therefore potentially dangerous even in a proper setting.
{{Preamble/SubjectiveEffects}}
{{effects/base
PCP is considerably more likely to induce [[psychosis]] than other dissociatives and is therefore potentially dangerous regardless of setting.
The general head space of PCP is often described as particularly euphoric and clear-headed in comparison to that of [[DXM]] and [[ketamine]]. The specific cognitive effects can be broken down into several separate subcomponents which are listed and described below:
{{effects/visual|
*'''[[Effect::Psychosis]]''' - This effect is more common on PCP than other dissociatives.<ref name="one">http://archives.drugabuse.gov/pdf/monographs/21.pdf | Luisada, Paul V., M.D. "The Phencyclidine Psychosis: Phenomenology and Treatment." Phencyclidine (PCP) Abuse: An Appraisal. Rockville, Maryland: National Institute on Drug Abuse, 1978. pg. 241.</ref><ref name="two">Tasman, Allan, Jerald Kay, and Jeffrey A. Lieberman. Psychiatry. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons, 2003. Google Books. Wiley. Web. <https://books.google.com/books?id=l2KRBgAAQBAJ&pg=PT4957&lpg=PT4957&dq=Greifenstein+et+al.+1958%29.&source=bl&ots=s5CFdAfMzc&sig=GzsOq_N-V1qtahxyyHnKMJceEj0&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwji0pWTjNLKAhUBaD4KHTfqD0sQ6AEIHDAA#v=onepage&q=Greifenstein%20et%20al.%201958%29.&f=false>.</ref>
This substance does not enhance visual stimuli; instead, it tends to degrade and decrease visual aptitude in a variety of ways which generally include:
*'''[[Effect::Visual disconnection]]''' - This eventually results in PCP's equivalent of the famous "k-hole" or more specifically, ''[[Visual disconnection#Holes, spaces and voids|holes, spaces and voids]]'' alongside of ''[[Visual disconnection#Structures|structures]]''.
PCP exhibits a full array of dissociative distortions and alterations in visual perception which generally includes:
*'''[[Effect::Environmental orbism]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Perspective distortions]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Perspective distortions]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Environmental cubism]]'''
*"'[[Effect::Object Activation]]"'
*'''[[Effect::Environmental orbism]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Scenery slicing]]'''
====[[Effect::Geometry]]====
====[[Effect::Geometry]]====
====Hallucinatory states====
====Hallucinatory states====
At high doses, PCP can produce a full range of high level hallucinatory states in a fashion that is less consistent and reproducible than that of many other commonly used [[psychedelics]]. These effects include:
At high doses, PCP can produce a full range of high-level hallucinatory states in a fashion that is less consistent and reproducible than that of many other commonly used [[hallucinogens]]. These effects include:
*'''[[Effect::External hallucinations]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Internal hallucination]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Internal hallucinations]]'''
*'''[[Effect::External hallucination]]'''
===Auditory effects===
}}
The auditory effects of PCP are common in their occurrence and exhibit a range of effects which commonly includes:
*'''[[Effect::Visual Temporal-Spatial-Cognitive Distortion]]''' - PCP has no hole and induces a sense a second is far away but the hour is closer which shift between the vice versa. It produces "cognizant" hallucinogenic effects via PCPsite-2 inverse agonism. It is very lucid and realistic and you see shadow people after blinking.
}}
|{{effects/cognitive|
The general head space of PCP is often described as particularly stimulating, euphoric and clear-headed in comparison to that of [[DXM]] and [[ketamine]]. The specific cognitive effects can be broken down into several separate subcomponents which are listed and described below:
*'''[[Effect::Amnesia]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Analysis suppression]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Anxiety suppression]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Cognitive euphoria]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Compulsive redosing]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Conceptual thinking]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Creativity enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Delusion]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Depersonalization]]
*'''[[Effect::Derealization]]
*'''[[Effect::Disinhibition]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Déjà vu]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Ego death]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Ego inflation]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Feelings of impending doom]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Immersion enhancement]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Introspection]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Mania]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Memory suppression]]'''
*'''[[Effect::Psychosis]]''' - This effect is more common on PCP than other dissociatives.<ref name="Luisada1978">{{Citation | vauthors=((Luisada, P. V., M. D.)) | year=1978 | title=“The Phencyclidine Psychosis: Phenomenology and Treatment.” Phencyclidine (PCP) Abuse: An Appraisal. | publisher=National Institute on Drug Abuse | url=https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/phencyclidine-psychosis-phenomenology-and-treatment-phencyclidine}}</ref><ref name="Tasman2015">{{cite book | vauthors=((Tasman, A.)), ((Kay, J.)), ((Lieberman, J. A.)), ((First, M. B.)), ((Riba, M.)) | date=5 February 2015 | title=Psychiatry | publisher=John Wiley & Sons | isbn=9781118753361}}</ref>
The long-term use of PCP may lead to schizophrenia-like psychotic episodes, severe lasting memory loss, disorganized thinking, depression, weight loss, liver abnormalities and rhabdomyolysis (skeletal muscle breakdown).<ref name="erowid">{{Citation | title=Erowid PCP (Phencyclidine) Vault : Effects | url=https://www.erowid.org/chemicals/pcp/pcp_effects.shtml}}</ref>
It is very strongly recommended that one use extreme caution and [[responsible drug use|harm reduction]] practices when using this substance. For example,
*Users should avoid taking the drug multiple days in a row or becoming addicted to it as this increases the risk of severe adverse effects.
*The recommended dosage range should not be exceeded as high doses can trigger adverse effects.
*Users should start with extremely low doses and work their way up as slowly as possible. [[Volumetric liquid dosing|Volumetric liquid dosing]] should preferably be used due to the drug's potency; most standard milligram scales cannot accurately weigh out doses below 10-15mg.
*[[Compulsive redosing]] before one has fully sobered up is not recommended and can result in too high of a dose.
===Psychosis===
===Psychosis===
PCP has been reported to cause [[psychosis]] and mania at a significantly higher rate than other [[dissociatives]] like [[ketamine]], [[diphenidine]], or [[MXE]]. There are multiple scientific papers which describe states of psychosis, mania, and/or delirium occurring after large doses of the drug were ingested. In one initial human trial, it was reported that one-sixth of the patients who had received anaesthetic doses became psychotic.<ref name="one">http://archives.drugabuse.gov/pdf/monographs/21.pdf | Luisada, Paul V., M.D. "The Phencyclidine Psychosis: Phenomenology and Treatment." Phencyclidine (PCP) Abuse: An Appraisal. Rockville, Maryland: National Institute on Drug Abuse, 1978. pg. 241.</ref><ref name="two">Tasman, Allan, Jerald Kay, and Jeffrey A. Lieberman. Psychiatry. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons, 2003. Google Books. Wiley. Web. <https://books.google.com/books?id=l2KRBgAAQBAJ&pg=PT4957&lpg=PT4957&dq=Greifenstein+et+al.+1958%29.&source=bl&ots=s5CFdAfMzc&sig=GzsOq_N-V1qtahxyyHnKMJceEj0&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwji0pWTjNLKAhUBaD4KHTfqD0sQ6AEIHDAA#v=onepage&q=Greifenstein%20et%20al.%201958%29.&f=false>.</ref> In some cases, it took up to a week or more to resolve.
PCP has been reported to cause [[psychosis]] and mania at a significantly higher rate than other [[dissociative]]s such as [[ketamine]], [[diphenidine]], or [[MXE]]. Multiple scientific papers describe states of psychosis, mania, and/or delirium occurring after moderate to large doses of the drug were ingested.
It is strongly recommended that one use extreme caution and [[responsible use|harm reduction]] practices when using this drug. Users should avoid taking the drug multiple days in a row or becoming addicted to it as this increases the risk of severe adverse effects. The recommended dosage range should not be exceeded as high doses can trigger these effects as well. Users should start with extremely low doses and work their way up as slowly as possible. [[Volumetric liquid dosing|Volumetric liquid dosing]] should preferably be used due to the drug's potency; most standard milligram scales cannot accurately weigh out doses below 10-15mg.<ref>3-MeO-PCP (Tripsit) | https://wiki.tripsit.me/wiki/3-MeO-PCP</ref> [[Compulsive redosing]] before one has fully sobered up is not recommended and can result in too high of a dose.
In one initial human trial, it was reported that one-sixth of the patients who had received anesthetic doses experienced acute psychosis.<ref name="Luisada1978" /> In some cases, it took up to a week or more to resolve. Similar results (although less severe) were reported during trials using subanesthetic doses of PCP for pain relief.<ref name="two">Tasman, Allan, Jerald Kay, and Jeffrey A. Lieberman. Psychiatry. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons, 2003. Google Books. Wiley. Web. <https://books.google.com/books?id=l2KRBgAAQBAJ&pg=PT4957&lpg=PT4957&dq=Greifenstein+et+al.+1958%29.&source=bl&ots=s5CFdAfMzc&sig=GzsOq_N-V1qtahxyyHnKMJceEj0&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwji0pWTjNLKAhUBaD4KHTfqD0sQ6AEIHDAA#v=onepage&q=Greifenstein%20et%20al.%201958%29.&f=false>.</ref>
Due to the risk of psychosis, it is not recommended to combine this drug with other substances, especially [[stimulants]], [[psychedelics]], or other [[dissociatives]] like [[MXE]]. Independent research should always be done to ensure that a combination of two or more substances is safe before consumption.
Due to the risk of psychosis, it is not recommended to combine this substance with other substances, especially [[stimulant|stimulants]], [[psychedelic|psychedelics]], or other [[dissociative|dissociatives]] like [[MXE]] and [[DXM]].
===Tolerance and addiction potential===
In terms of PCP tolerance, similar to any other NMDA antagonist, this can take weeks to build up for some, but for others it can take merely a single night of heavy use. Once a physical tolerance to PCP has set itself in, it can often take a month or more to reset itself.
PCP has a fairly high potential to be abused. It does not seem to be physically addictive, but can become habit-forming, meaning that it could potentially be used multiple days in a row if somebody chooses to do so. There have been multiple reports across the internet of people becoming seriously addicted daily users of this substance so serious precautions and considerations should be taken before trying this substance.
===Neurological effects===
Some studies found that, like other [[NMDA receptor antagonist|NMDA receptor antagonists]], PCP can cause brain damage called [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olney%27s_lesions Olney's lesions] in rats.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Olney, J. W.)), ((Labruyere, J.)), ((Price, M. T.)) | journal=Science (New York, N.Y.) | title=Pathological changes induced in cerebrocortical neurons by phencyclidine and related drugs | volume=244 | issue=4910 | pages=1360–1362 | date=16 June 1989 | issn=0036-8075 | doi=10.1126/science.2660263}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Hargreaves, R. J.)), ((Hill, R. G.)), ((Iversen, L. L.)) | journal=Acta Neurochirurgica. Supplementum | title=Neuroprotective NMDA antagonists: the controversy over their potential for adverse effects on cortical neuronal morphology | volume=60 | pages=15–19 | date= 1994 | doi=10.1007/978-3-7091-9334-1_4}}
</ref> Studies conducted on rats showed that high doses of the NMDA receptor antagonist dizocilpine caused reversible vacuoles to form in certain regions of the rats' brains. All studies of Olney's lesions have only been performed on non-human animals and may not apply to humans.
Reports of compulsive redosing during high dose trips resulting in overdoses have also been reported. This can be prevented by keeping PCP far away from oneself whilst under its influence. Addiction can be avoided by manually limiting one's usage of the drug. It’s worth noting, however, that as with most [[hallucinogens]], many users note that the desire to use them can actually decrease with use.
One unpublished study by Frank Sharp reportedly showed no damage by the NMDA antagonist [[ketamine]] (a similar drug) far beyond recreational doses<ref>{{cite book | vauthors=((Grof, S.)) | date= 2010 | title=The ultimate journey: consciousness and the mystery of death | publisher=MAPS | edition=2. ed | isbn=9780966001976}}</ref> but its validity is controversial since it was never published.
PCP has also been shown to cause schizophrenia-like changes in N-acetylaspartate and N-acetylaspartylglutamate levels in the rat brain, which are detectable both in living rats and upon necropsy examination of brain tissue.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Reynolds, L. M.)), ((Cochran, S. M.)), ((Morris, B. J.)), ((Pratt, J. A.)), ((Reynolds, G. P.)) | journal=Schizophrenia Research | title=Chronic phencyclidine administration induces schizophrenia-like changes in N-acetylaspartate and N-acetylaspartylglutamate in rat brain | volume=73 | issue=2–3 | pages=147–152 | date=1 March 2005 | issn=0920-9964 | doi=10.1016/j.schres.2004.02.003}}</ref> It also induces symptoms in humans that mimic schizophrenia.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors=((Murray, J. B.)) | journal=The Journal of Psychology | title=Phencyclidine (PCP): a dangerous drug, but useful in schizophrenia research | volume=136 | issue=3 | pages=319–327 | date= May 2002 | issn=0022-3980 | doi=10.1080/00223980209604159}}</ref>
===Urinary tract effects===
===Urinary tract effects===
In terms of its long-term health effects when used repeatedly and with excess for extended periods of time, PCP seems to exhibit almost identical bladder and urinary tract problems to those found within [[ketamine]].
In terms of its long-term health effects when used repeatedly and excessively for extended periods of time, PCP seems to exhibit almost identical bladder and urinary tract problems to those produced by [[ketamine]].
*'''Urinary frequency''' - Urinary frequency is the need to empty the bladder every few minutes.
*'''Urinary frequency''' - Urinary frequency is the need to empty the bladder every few minutes.
*'''Urinary urgency''' - This can be described as a sudden, compelling need to urinate.
*'''Urinary urgency''' - This can be described as a sudden, compelling need to urinate.
*'''Urinary pressure''' - This is experienced as a constant sensation of fullness in the bladder that is unrelieved by urination.
*'''Urinary pressure''' - This is experienced as a constant sensation of fullness in the bladder that is unrelieved by urination.
*'''Pelvic and bladder pain''' - Pain can develop suddenly and severely, particularly as the bladder fills with urine.
*'''Pelvic and bladder pain''' - Pain can develop suddenly and severely, particularly as the bladder fills with urine.
*'''Hematuria''' - Hematuria is visible blood in the urine.
*'''Hematuria''' - Hematuria is visible blood in the urine.
*'''Incontinence''' - This is the leakage of urine.
*'''Incontinence''' - This is the uncontrolled leakage of urine.
===Dependence and abuse potential===
The chronic use of PCP can be considered [[Addiction potential::highly addictive with a high potential for adverse side effects such as psychosis]]. In comparison to other [[dissociative]]s, PCP has been reported to be more addictive than [[MXE]], [[diphenidine]], [[ephenidine]], and [[ketamine]].
When addiction has developed, cravings and [[withdrawal effects]] may occur if a person suddenly stops their usage. There have been multiple reports across the internet of people becoming seriously addicted daily users of this substance so serious precautions and considerations should be taken before trying this substance.
Tolerance to many of the effects of PCP develops [[Time to full tolerance::with prolonged and repeated use]]. This results in users having to administer increasingly large doses to achieve the same effects. After that, it takes about [[Time to half tolerance::3 - 7 days]] for the tolerance to be reduced to half and [[Time to zero tolerance::1 - 2 weeks]] to be back at baseline (in the absence of further consumption). PCP presents cross-tolerance with [[Cross-tolerance::all [[dissociative|dissociatives]]]], meaning that after the consumption of PCP, all [[dissociative|dissociatives]] will have a reduced effect.
All of these, however, can easily be avoided by simply not using PCP on a daily or even weekly basis and manually limiting one's usage of the substance.
===Dangerous interactions===
===Dangerous interactions===
{{DangerousInteractions/Intro}}
{{DangerousInteractions/Intro}}
{{DangerousInteractions/Dissos}}
==Legal issues==
*'''[[UncertainInteraction::MXE]]''' - There are no reports available about this combination.
*'''Canada''' - PCP is Schedule I in Canada.
*'''[[UncertainInteraction::Caffeine]]''' - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
*'''New Zealand''' - PCP is Schedule I (class A) in New Zealand.
*'''[[UncertainInteraction::Opioids]]''' - PCP can reduce opioid tolerance, increasing the risk of overdose.
*'''Poland''' - PCP is Schedule II (II-P group) in Poland.
*'''[[UnsafeInteraction::DOx]]''' - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
*'''Portugal''' - Effective July 2001, personal use of PCP was decriminalized by Law 30/2000. Possession of less than 100 mg is not regarded as a criminal offence, though the substance is liable to be seized and the possessor can be referred to mandatory treatment. Sale or possession of quantities greater than the personal possession limit are criminal offences punishable by jail time.
*'''[[UnsafeInteraction::Amphetamines]]''' - This combination can easily lead to hypermanic states.
*'''U.K.''' - PCP is a class A in the U.K., making it illegal to buy or possess without a prescription.
*'''[[UnsafeInteraction::MDMA]]''' - This combination can easily lead to hypermanic states.
*'''U.S. '''- PCP is a Schedule II controlled substance.
*'''[[UnsafeInteraction::Cocaine]]''' - This combination can easily lead to hypermanic states.
*'''[[UnsafeInteraction::Alcohol]]''' - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
*'''[[UnsafeInteraction::Benzodiazepines]]''' - Both substances potentiate the ataxia and sedation caused by the other and can lead to unexpected loss of consciousness at high doses. While unconscious, vomit aspiration is a risk if not placed in the recovery position. Memory blackouts are likely.
*'''[[UnsafeInteraction::SSRIs]]''' - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
*'''[[DangerousInteraction::2C-T-x]]'''
*'''[[DangerousInteraction::ΑMT]]'''
*'''[[DangerousInteraction::5-MeO-xxT]]'''
*'''[[DangerousInteraction::DXM]]'''
*'''[[DangerousInteraction::GHB]]''' - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
*'''[[DangerousInteraction::GBL]]''' - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
*'''[[DangerousInteraction::Tramadol]]'''
*'''[[DangerousInteraction::MAOIs]]''' - Little information exists about this combination.
==Legal status==
Internationally, PCP is a Schedule II substance under the Convention on Psychotropic Substances.<ref>{{cite web|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20070302130637/http://www.incb.org/pdf/e/list/green.pdf|url=http://www.incb.org/pdf/e/list/green.pdf|archive-date=March 2, 2007|title=List of psychotropic substances under international control (Green List)|edition=23rd|date=August 2003|publisher=International Narcotics Control Board (INCB)}}</ref>
*'''Austria''' - PCP is illegal to possess, produce and sell under the SMG (Suchtmittelgesetz Österreich).{{Citation needed}}
*'''Canada''' - PCP is controlled under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act as a Schedule I substance.<ref>{{Citation | vauthors=((Branch, L. S.)) | year=2022 | title=Consolidated federal laws of Canada, Controlled Drugs and Substances Act | url=https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-38.8/page-13.html#h-95315}}</ref>
*'''Czech Republic''': PCP is a Schedule II <ref>https://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:6b5e9beb-1d9b-11ea-95ab-01aa75ed71a1.0001.02/DOC_1&format=PDF</ref> (List 5) substance. Sold exclusively with a prescription "marked with a blue stripe running from the lower left corner to the upper right corner" (§ 1, e), 2. of ''Nařízení vlády č. 463/2013 Sb.'') <ref>https://www.zakonyprolidi.cz/cs/2013-463</ref>
*'''Germany''' - PCP is controlled under BtMG Anlage I, making it illegal to manufacture, import, possess, sell, or transfer it without a license.<ref>{{Citation | title=Anlage I BtMG - Einzelnorm | url=http://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/btmg_1981/anlage_i.html}}</ref>
*'''New Zealand''' - PCP is Schedule I (class A) in New Zealand.{{citation needed}}
*'''Poland''' - PCP is listed under "Wykaz środków odurzających i substancji psychotropowych[" (II-P group) in Poland, and is illegal to posses, sell and manufacture.<ref>{Citation | year=2022 | title=Wykaz środków odurzających i substancji psychotropowych | url=https://pl.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Wykaz_%C5%9Brodk%C3%B3w_odurzaj%C4%85cych_i_substancji_psychotropowych&oldid=67226458}}</ref>
*'''Portugal''' - PCP is a Table-II-A substance under Decree-Law 15/93: Anti-Drug Legislation. PCP was decriminalized for personal use by Law 30/2000, but consumption or possession is still prohibited. The substance is liable to be seized and the possessor can be referred to mandatory treatment.<ref>Decree-Law 15/93: Anti-Drug Legislation <nowiki>https://www.imolin.org/doc/amlid/Portugal_Decree-Law</nowiki> 15 of 1993_Anti-Drug Legislation.pdf#page=35</ref><ref>Decree-Law 15/93: Anti-Drug Legislation https://www.imolin.org/doc/amlid/Portugal_Decree-Law%2015%20of%201993_Anti-Drug%20Legislation.pdf#page=21</ref>
*'''Switzerland:''' - PCP is a controlled substance specifically named under Verzeichnis A. Medicinal use is permitted.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.admin.ch/opc/de/classified-compilation/20101220/index.html|title=Verordnung des EDI über die Verzeichnisse der Betäubungsmittel, psychotropen Stoffe, Vorläuferstoffe und Hilfschemikalien|publisher=Bundeskanzlei [Federal Chancellery of Switzerland]|access-date=January 1, 2020|language=de}}</ref>
*'''United Kingdom''' - PCP is controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act as a Schedule II Class A drug, making it illegal to possess without a prescription.<ref>{{Citation | vauthors=((Participation, E.)) | title=Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 | url=https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1971/38/schedule/2}}</ref>
*'''United States '''- PCP is controlled under the Controlled Substances Act as a Schedule II controlled substance, making it illegal to possess without a prescription.<ref>Drug Enforcement Administration. (2021, August 27). Orange Book. https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/orangebook/e_cs_sched.pdf#page=11</ref><ref>Drug Enforcement Administration. (2020, March). PHENCYCLIDINE. https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/pcp.pdf</ref>
*Morris, H., & Wallach, J. (2014). From PCP to MXE: A comprehensive review of the non-medical use of dissociative drugs. Drug Testing and Analysis, 6(7–8), 614–632. https://doi.org/10.1002/dta.1620
WARNING: Always start with lower doses due to differences between individual body weight, tolerance, metabolism, and personal sensitivity. See responsible use section.
DISCLAIMER: PW's dosage information is gathered from users and resources for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation and should be verified with other sources for accuracy.
Phencyclidine (also known as PCP, Angel Dust, Sherm, and Sernyl)[6] is a classical dissociative substance of the arylcyclohexylamine class. It is one of the oldest and most notorious dissociatives, known for its potent effects and reputation as an established "street drug" (along with cocaine and heroin).[7] It produces its effects by blocking the NMDA receptor.[8]
First marketed in the 1950s as an anesthetic pharmaceutical drug, PCP was taken off the market in 1965 due to the high rate of hallucinogenic side effects. It emerged as a recreational substance in mid-1967, under the name "The Peace Pill".[9][10] Since this time, a number of synthetic derivatives of PCP (e.g. 3-MeO-PCP, 4-MeO-PCP, MXE) have been sold as dissociative drugs for both recreational and non-medical use.[11]
PCP has high abuse potential. Compulsive redosing has been reported, as well as psychological dependence following chronic use (i.e. high dose, repeated administration). Additionally, chronic use has been associated with numerous manifestations of toxicity (see this section for more information).[citation needed] It is highly advised to use harm reduction practices if using this substance.
After being discovered in 1926, PCP was developed as a general anesthetic in the 1950s because it could achieve analgesia and anesthesia with minimal cardiovascular and respiratory suppression. It was marketed under the name Sernyl and began to be used in surgical procedures in 1963.[13]
By 1967, it was discontinued due to postoperative dysphoria and hallucinations. After 1967, it was limited to veterinary use. Also in the 1960s, PCP began to be illegally manufactured in laboratories and emerged as a popular street drug in San Francisco. In the 1970s, PCP use became widespread.[13]
Common names
Common street names for PCP are the peace pill, angel dust, sherm sticks, peeps, crystal joints, rocket fuel, sawgrass, zoom, the sheets, and elephant tranquilizer.[13]
Chemistry
PCP, or phencyclidine, is a synthetic dissociative of the arylcyclohexylamine class. PCP contains cyclohexane, a six-member saturated ring, bonded to two additional rings at R1. One of these rings is a piperidine ring, a nitrogenous six member ring, bonded at its nitrogen group. The other ring is an aromatic phenyl ring. PCP is an initialism named from the first letters of the three constituent rings phenyl, cyclohexane and piperidine.
PCP acts as an NMDA receptor antagonist. NMDA receptors allow for electrical signals to pass between neurons in the brain and spinal column; for the signals to pass, the receptor must be open. Dissociatives close the NMDA receptors by blocking them. This disconnection of neurons leads to loss of feeling, difficulty moving, and eventually an almost identical equivalent of the notorious “k-hole.”
Unlike ketamine, PCP also shows appreciable affinity for antagonizing the PCP2 glutamate receptor.[14] PCP also acts as a sigma-2 agonist and mild serotonin reuptake inhibitor.[15] It has also been characterized as a potent D2 dopamine agonist but not a dopamine reuptake inhibitor in humans.[16] This D2 dopamine agonism contributes to the infamous stimulation, euphoria, and mania of PCP.
PCP is considerably more likely to induce psychosis and mania than other dissociatives and is therefore potentially dangerous even in a proper setting.
Disclaimer: The effects listed below cite the Subjective Effect Index (SEI), an open research literature based on anecdotal user reports and the personal analyses of PsychonautWikicontributors. As a result, they should be viewed with a healthy degree of skepticism.
It is also worth noting that these effects will not necessarily occur in a predictable or reliable manner, although higher doses are more liable to induce the full spectrum of effects. Likewise, adverse effects become increasingly likely with higher doses and may include addiction, severe injury, or death ☠.
At high doses, PCP can produce a full range of high-level hallucinatory states in a fashion that is less consistent and reproducible than that of many other commonly used hallucinogens. These effects include:
Visual Temporal-Spatial-Cognitive Distortion - PCP has no hole and induces a sense a second is far away but the hour is closer which shift between the vice versa. It produces "cognizant" hallucinogenic effects via PCPsite-2 inverse agonism. It is very lucid and realistic and you see shadow people after blinking.
Cognitive effects
The general head space of PCP is often described as particularly stimulating, euphoric and clear-headed in comparison to that of DXM and ketamine. The specific cognitive effects can be broken down into several separate subcomponents which are listed and described below:
The long-term use of PCP may lead to schizophrenia-like psychotic episodes, severe lasting memory loss, disorganized thinking, depression, weight loss, liver abnormalities and rhabdomyolysis (skeletal muscle breakdown).[17]
It is very strongly recommended that one use extreme caution and harm reduction practices when using this substance. For example,
Users should avoid taking the drug multiple days in a row or becoming addicted to it as this increases the risk of severe adverse effects.
The recommended dosage range should not be exceeded as high doses can trigger adverse effects.
Users should start with extremely low doses and work their way up as slowly as possible. Volumetric liquid dosing should preferably be used due to the drug's potency; most standard milligram scales cannot accurately weigh out doses below 10-15mg.
Compulsive redosing before one has fully sobered up is not recommended and can result in too high of a dose.
Psychosis
PCP has been reported to cause psychosis and mania at a significantly higher rate than other dissociatives such as ketamine, diphenidine, or MXE. Multiple scientific papers describe states of psychosis, mania, and/or delirium occurring after moderate to large doses of the drug were ingested.
In one initial human trial, it was reported that one-sixth of the patients who had received anesthetic doses experienced acute psychosis.[1] In some cases, it took up to a week or more to resolve. Similar results (although less severe) were reported during trials using subanesthetic doses of PCP for pain relief.[18]
Due to the risk of psychosis, it is not recommended to combine this substance with other substances, especially stimulants, psychedelics, or other dissociatives like MXE and DXM.
Neurological effects
Some studies found that, like other NMDA receptor antagonists, PCP can cause brain damage called Olney's lesions in rats.[19][20] Studies conducted on rats showed that high doses of the NMDA receptor antagonist dizocilpine caused reversible vacuoles to form in certain regions of the rats' brains. All studies of Olney's lesions have only been performed on non-human animals and may not apply to humans.
One unpublished study by Frank Sharp reportedly showed no damage by the NMDA antagonist ketamine (a similar drug) far beyond recreational doses[21] but its validity is controversial since it was never published.
PCP has also been shown to cause schizophrenia-like changes in N-acetylaspartate and N-acetylaspartylglutamate levels in the rat brain, which are detectable both in living rats and upon necropsy examination of brain tissue.[22] It also induces symptoms in humans that mimic schizophrenia.[23]
Urinary tract effects
In terms of its long-term health effects when used repeatedly and excessively for extended periods of time, PCP seems to exhibit almost identical bladder and urinary tract problems to those produced by ketamine.
Urinary frequency - Urinary frequency is the need to empty the bladder every few minutes.
Urinary urgency - This can be described as a sudden, compelling need to urinate.
Urinary pressure - This is experienced as a constant sensation of fullness in the bladder that is unrelieved by urination.
Pelvic and bladder pain - Pain can develop suddenly and severely, particularly as the bladder fills with urine.
Hematuria - Hematuria is visible blood in the urine.
Incontinence - This is the uncontrolled leakage of urine.
Dependence and abuse potential
The chronic use of PCP can be considered highly addictive with a high potential for adverse side effects such as psychosis. In comparison to other dissociatives, PCP has been reported to be more addictive than MXE, diphenidine, ephenidine, and ketamine.
When addiction has developed, cravings and withdrawal effects may occur if a person suddenly stops their usage. There have been multiple reports across the internet of people becoming seriously addicted daily users of this substance so serious precautions and considerations should be taken before trying this substance.
Tolerance to many of the effects of PCP develops with prolonged and repeated use. This results in users having to administer increasingly large doses to achieve the same effects. After that, it takes about 3 - 7 days for the tolerance to be reduced to half and 1 - 2 weeks to be back at baseline (in the absence of further consumption). PCP presents cross-tolerance with [[Cross-tolerance::all dissociatives]], meaning that after the consumption of PCP, all dissociatives will have a reduced effect.
Dangerous interactions
Warning:Many psychoactive substances that are reasonably safe to use on their own can suddenly become dangerous and even life-threatening when combined with certain other substances. The following list provides some known dangerous interactions (although it is not guaranteed to include all of them).
Always conduct independent research (e.g. Google, DuckDuckGo, PubMed) to ensure that a combination of two or more substances is safe to consume. Some of the listed interactions have been sourced from TripSit.
MXE - There are no reports available about this combination.
Caffeine - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
Opioids - PCP can reduce opioid tolerance, increasing the risk of overdose.
DOx - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
Amphetamines - This combination can easily lead to hypermanic states.
MDMA - This combination can easily lead to hypermanic states.
Cocaine - This combination can easily lead to hypermanic states.
Alcohol - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
Benzodiazepines - Both substances potentiate the ataxia and sedation caused by the other and can lead to unexpected loss of consciousness at high doses. While unconscious, vomit aspiration is a risk if not placed in the recovery position. Memory blackouts are likely.
SSRIs - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
2C-T-x
ΑMT
5-MeO-xxT
DXM
GHB - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
GBL - Details of this combination are not well understood but PCP generally interacts in an unpredictable manner.
Tramadol
MAOIs - Little information exists about this combination.
Legal status
Internationally, PCP is a Schedule II substance under the Convention on Psychotropic Substances.[24]
Austria - PCP is illegal to possess, produce and sell under the SMG (Suchtmittelgesetz Österreich).[citation needed]
Canada - PCP is controlled under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act as a Schedule I substance.[25]
Czech Republic: PCP is a Schedule II [26] (List 5) substance. Sold exclusively with a prescription "marked with a blue stripe running from the lower left corner to the upper right corner" (§ 1, e), 2. of Nařízení vlády č. 463/2013 Sb.) [27]
Germany - PCP is controlled under BtMG Anlage I, making it illegal to manufacture, import, possess, sell, or transfer it without a license.[28]
New Zealand - PCP is Schedule I (class A) in New Zealand.[citation needed]
Poland - PCP is listed under "Wykaz środków odurzających i substancji psychotropowych[" (II-P group) in Poland, and is illegal to posses, sell and manufacture.[29]
Portugal - PCP is a Table-II-A substance under Decree-Law 15/93: Anti-Drug Legislation. PCP was decriminalized for personal use by Law 30/2000, but consumption or possession is still prohibited. The substance is liable to be seized and the possessor can be referred to mandatory treatment.[30][31]
Switzerland: - PCP is a controlled substance specifically named under Verzeichnis A. Medicinal use is permitted.[32]
United Kingdom - PCP is controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act as a Schedule II Class A drug, making it illegal to possess without a prescription.[33]
United States - PCP is controlled under the Controlled Substances Act as a Schedule II controlled substance, making it illegal to possess without a prescription.[34][35]
Morris, H., & Wallach, J. (2014). From PCP to MXE: A comprehensive review of the non-medical use of dissociative drugs. Drug Testing and Analysis, 6(7–8), 614–632. https://doi.org/10.1002/dta.1620
↑Nestler, E. J., Hyman, S. E., Malenka, R. C. (2009). Molecular neuropharmacology: a foundation for clinical neuroscience (2nd ed ed.). McGraw-Hill Medical. ISBN9780071481274.CS1 maint: Extra text (link)
↑Morris, H., Wallach, J. (August 2014). "From PCP to MXE: a comprehensive review of the non-medical use of dissociative drugs". Drug Testing and Analysis. 6 (7–8): 614–632. doi:10.1002/dta.1620. ISSN1942-7611.
↑Seeman, P., Guan, H.-C., Hirbec, H. (August 2009). "Dopamine D2High receptors stimulated by phencyclidines, lysergic acid diethylamide, salvinorin A, and modafinil". Synapse (New York, N.Y.). 63 (8): 698–704. doi:10.1002/syn.20647. ISSN1098-2396.
↑Olney, J. W., Labruyere, J., Price, M. T. (16 June 1989). "Pathological changes induced in cerebrocortical neurons by phencyclidine and related drugs". Science (New York, N.Y.). 244 (4910): 1360–1362. doi:10.1126/science.2660263. ISSN0036-8075.
↑Hargreaves, R. J., Hill, R. G., Iversen, L. L. (1994). "Neuroprotective NMDA antagonists: the controversy over their potential for adverse effects on cortical neuronal morphology". Acta Neurochirurgica. Supplementum. 60: 15–19. doi:10.1007/978-3-7091-9334-1_4.
↑Grof, S. (2010). The ultimate journey: consciousness and the mystery of death (2. ed ed.). MAPS. ISBN9780966001976.CS1 maint: Extra text (link)
↑Reynolds, L. M., Cochran, S. M., Morris, B. J., Pratt, J. A., Reynolds, G. P. (1 March 2005). "Chronic phencyclidine administration induces schizophrenia-like changes in N-acetylaspartate and N-acetylaspartylglutamate in rat brain". Schizophrenia Research. 73 (2–3): 147–152. doi:10.1016/j.schres.2004.02.003. ISSN0920-9964.
↑Murray, J. B. (May 2002). "Phencyclidine (PCP): a dangerous drug, but useful in schizophrenia research". The Journal of Psychology. 136 (3): 319–327. doi:10.1080/00223980209604159. ISSN0022-3980.
