Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen. 2005 Oct 20;125(20):2775-6.

[Phencyclidine--angel dust].

[Article in Norwegian]

Høiseth G1, Hjelmeland K, Bachs L.

• 1Divisjon for rettstoksikologi og rusmiddelforskning, Nasjonalt folkehelseinstitutt, Postboks 4404 Nydalen, 0403 Oslo. gugu@fhi.no

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

For the first time in ten years, phencyclidine (PCP) has been confiscated in Norway. Physicians should be aware of this substance when treating intoxications.

METHODS:

Relevant literature was identified by search in Medline. This review presents the pharmacological properties and effects of phencyclidine as well as symptoms and treatment of phencyclidine intoxication.

RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION:

Phencyclidine exhibits hallucinogenic, depressant and stimulant properties. Phencyclidine interacts as an antagonist to the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor in the central nervous system. Severe NMDA receptor hypofunction can elicit clinical symptoms similar to a schizophrenic episode.

PMID:  16244678