Phencyclidine, commonly known as PCP, is a dissociative drug that was developed in the 1950s as a surgical anesthetic. Today, it exists in various forms, each with distinct methods of production, potency, and methods of consumption. Understanding the different types of PCP is essential for recognizing its dangers and identifying potential exposure, whether in clinical settings, illicit markets, or environments where drug contamination is a concern.
Historical Context and Pharmaceutical Origin
Originally synthesized in 1956, PCP was approved by the FDA under the brand name Sernyl for use as an anesthetic in medical procedures. Its medical use was discontinued in the 1970s due to severe side effects, including hallucinations, delirium, and unpredictable behavior. The transition from a legal pharmaceutical agent to a notorious illicit drug marks a critical point in understanding the substance's legacy and the different iterations it has taken over the decades.
Illicit Powder and Crystalline Forms
The most common type encountered by law enforcement and health professionals is illicit PCP, typically found as a white or off-white crystalline powder. This form is often mixed with dyes to create vibrant colors, making it visually distinct on the street. It can be snorted, smoked, or ingested, and is frequently sold under street names such as "angel dust" or "ozone." The base powder is highly soluble, allowing it to be easily dissolved in drinks or applied to other substances like marijuana or tobacco for smoking.
Table: Common Street Names and Physical Characteristics of PCP Powder
PCI-Laced Cigarettes and Cannabis
A particularly dangerous method of distribution involves soaking tobacco cigarettes or cannabis joints in PCP liquid. This type of PCP is often found in a liquid solution, sometimes clear or colored, which is applied to the plant material. When smoked, the drug is delivered rapidly through the lungs, creating an intense and immediate high. Users may be unaware they are consuming PCP, as the masking agents can make the taste and smell indistinguishable from normal tobacco or marijuana.
Ecstasy and MDMA Tablets Laced with PCP
In the party and nightclub scene, PCP is sometimes pressed into pills or found as a crystalline additive in MDMA tablets. These hybrid forms are unpredictable in potency and effects, leading to a high risk of overdose. Because these pills are often marketed as pure MDMA, users may consume multiple doses, inadvertently ingesting lethal amounts of PCP. This contamination of the ecstasy supply is a significant public health concern, as it targets an unsuspecting demographic of recreational users.
Transdermal and Absorptive Variants
While less common, certain forms of PCP are designed to be absorbed through the skin or mucous membranes. Some liquid variants can be absorbed via the eyes or placed on dissolvable blotter paper, similar to LSD. This method of delivery appeals to users seeking a controlled, albeit dangerous, dosing experience. The potency of these variants varies greatly, and accidental exposure can lead to severe intoxication, requiring immediate medical intervention.
