Phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust) was developed in the late 1950s to be used as an anesthetic, but its legitimate medical use of PCP was discontinued in 1962, because of the side effects caused by the drug (severe anxiety, delusions and psychoses).
Symptoms
Phencyclidine depresses the brain and users generally become confused and disoriented shortly after consumption, in addition to losing sensitivity to pain. Salivation and sweating can increase, as can blood pressure and heart rate. Muscle tremors are common.
Side effects
Very high doses of phencyclidine cause high blood pressure, often causing strokes, auditory hallucinations, seizures, lethal high fever, coma and possibly death.
Chronic consumption of PCP can damage the brain, kidneys and muscles. Users who are also schizophrenic are more likely to become psychotic for days or weeks after consuming PCP.
Treatment
Gastric lavage can be performed, as well as medications that accelerate the excretion of PCP from the body can be administered. Users are placed in a quiet room to relax, although blood pressure, heart rate and breathing are controlled continuously and a tranquilizer can be administered.
