Phencyclidine is commonly known as PCP or "angel dust." This drug was used as a human anesthetic and veterinary tranquilizer because it appears to interrupt the brain-body connection, keeping pain messages from entering the brain. Medical use in humans was discontinued in 1965 because patients became agitated, delusional and irrational while recovering from PCP's anesthetic effects. In 1978, veterinary use also was discontinued. Today, PCP is primarily manufactured in illegal laboratories and is often sold as another type of drug or laced with other drugs.
Brand or Common Names:
Sernylan, Phencyclidine
Slang Terms:
PCP, Angel Dust, Hog, Peace Pill
Medical Uses:
None
Duration of Effects:
Up to 4 days
Possible Effects:
Illusions and Hallucinations, Poor Perception of Time and Distance, Impaired Hand-Eye Coordination, Sensory Crossover, Psychosis, Chills and Sweating, Sleeplessness, Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure, Violence, Out-of-Body Experiences
Methods of Use:
Oral, Injected
Effects of Overdose:
Longer and More Intense Trip, Psychosis, Death
Withdrawal Symptoms:
Classic Withdrawal Syndrome Not Reported