Phencyclidine (PCP)

What is it?

Phencyclidine (PCP) is a dissociative drug originally made for surgical anesthetic only to later be discontinued due to serious side-effects. PCP works by altering the performance of the neurotransmitter glutamate. By doing so, it dulls the person’s feeling of pain, memory and understanding of their surroundings. Furthermore, PCP acts on other neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin to also impact mood and behavior. As a dissociative drug, it causes people to have feelings of detachment along with distorted sensory perception. [1]

Common names:

  • Angel Dust
  • Rocket Fuel
  • Ozone
  • Wack[1]

What health risks are there?

Short-term effects:

  • Decreased heart rate
  • Decreased blood pressure
  • Aggressive behavior
  • Euphoria
  • Paranoia
  • Sweating
  • Confusion
  • Seizures
  • Coma
  • Blurred Vision
  • Numbness






Long-term effects:

  • Depression
  • Psychosis
  • Hallucinations
  • Flashbacks
  • Memory loss
  • Anxiety
  • Speech issues
  • Aggressive behavior[2]






How is it used?

PCP can be ingested when mixed with a liquid. It is also found in tablet, capsule and powdered form which allows it to be snorted or smoked.[2]

[1] http://www.drugabuse.ca/pcp

[2] http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/hallucinogens-lsd-peyote-psilocybin-pcp