Fenciclidine (PCP, angel powder) was developed in the late 1950s for use as an anesthetic, but its legitimate medical use of PCP was discontinued in 1962 due to side effects caused by the drug (severe anxiety, delusions and psychosis).
Phencyclidine depresses the brain and users often become confused and disoriented shortly after consumption, as well as losing sensitivity to pain. Salivation and sweating can increase, as can blood pressure and heart rate. Muscle tremors are common.
Effects
Very high doses of phencyclidine cause high blood pressure, often leading to strokes, auditory hallucinations, seizures, fatal high fever, coma, and possibly death.
Chronic use 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 taking PCP.
Gastric lavage may be performed and drugs that accelerate the body’s PCP excretion may be administered. Users are placed in a quiet room to relax, although blood pressure, heart rate and breathing are constantly monitored and a tranquilizer can be administered.