Practice Essentials
Phencyclidine (PCP) is a hallucinogen—specifically, a dissociative anesthetic—that can produce a wide variety of physical and behavioral effects and has a high potential for abuse and dependence. Acute toxicity often resembling a psychotic episode. PCP is often taken in conjunction with other co-ingestants, including ethanol and marijuana.
PCP is a white crystalline powder that is available in liquid, tablet, or powder forms. It can be snorted, ingested orally, or injected intravenously. It also can be smoked as a “joint” or “wet” (“embalming fluid”) when sprinkled on cigarettes or applied to mint or marijuana leaves.
Newer designer versions such as 3-MeO-PCP and 4-MeO PCP now exist.