Phencyclidine (PCP) is a dissociative drug that has hallucinogenic effects, and it was initially developed as an anesthetic agent and for some time it marketed as Sernylan. 

PCP use can cause psychotic symptoms related to schizophrenia, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. 

PCP has been studied in animal models of schizophrenia, and in recent research it is observed that PCP-like compounds used for treating brain ischemia. 

PCP acts as an N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist which inhibits the action of glutamate and aspartate in the CNS system. 

PCP use has fallen globally from 1970 to 1980 but it remains a significant public health concern especially in urban areas with high substance use rates. 

PCP-induced death typically results from overdose, drug-induced suicide due to bizarre behaviour during intoxication. 

PCP and related psychiatric disorders can impact individuals of different demographics, including age, gender, and race. 

PCP is more frequently abused by males in sexual distribution, a trend that applies to various substances of abuse. 

The molecule physically blocks the movement of sodium, calcium, and potassium ions across the cell membrane to a site within the channel system and NMDA receptors leads to glutamate neurotransmission dysregulation which occurs excessive glutamate release. 

PCP may cause neurotoxicity in humans and the most scientific proofs for CNS damage found in animal model during pre-clinical studies. 

Primary intoxication stays for 4 to 6 hours but behavioural abnormalities can persist for several weeks. 

PCP disrupts brain neurotransmitter balance which lead to various psychiatric symptoms due to dysregulation of dopamine and noradrenaline. 

Psychosocial stressors can influence the onset and progression of psychiatric disorders related to PCP. 

The use of PCP in combination with alcohol and cannabis may increase the chances of adverse outcomes. 

A study conducted on 200 patients admitted in emergency room they exposed to PCP indicated an average length of stay in the emergency department. 

The study found that 82% of patients were discharged home and remaining 8% still needed hospital admission. 

Severe psychosis and mood instability cases should start intensive treatment and a prolonged recovery process for individuals. 

PCP use is initiated during adolescence and young adulthood. 

Neurological Examination 

Psychiatric Assessment 

Cardiovascular Examination 

Acute mood symptoms occur in emotional instability, agitation, and suicidal ideation, which required immediate psychiatric evaluation. 

Individuals with PCP-related psychiatric disorders during acute exacerbations of psychiatric symptoms may be at a higher risk of suicide. 

Patients should register them in psychiatric assessment and stabilization program to evaluate the severity of psychiatric symptoms. 

Give psychoeducation to patients, so this will help to engage them in treatment and mention all concerns related to their health. 

Necessary care should be given under observation of a physician, so it will stabilize the patient’s health condition. 

Appointments with medical physicians and preventing recurrence of disorder is an ongoing life-long process. 

Psychiatry/Mental Health

Provide treatment setting in a safe and supportive environment to minimize potential triggers for PCP use.  

Give education and support for family members to help them understand PCP-related psychiatric disorders and how to deal with this challenge.  

Individuals with PCP-related psychiatric disorders should connect to community resources and support services, including mental health clinics and vocational rehabilitation services. 

Pediatrics, General

Lorazepam: It is a fast-acting benzodiazepine with anxiolytic and anticonvulsant properties which are used to manage agitation and anxiety. 

Diazepam: It is used to manage agitation and anxiety in PCP intoxicated individuals which provide anxiolytic and sedative effects and promote relaxation. 

Psychiatry/Mental Health

Risperidone: It has lower affinity for the dopamine D2 receptor and shows improvement in symptoms of psychosis and reduces the incidence of extra pyramidal adverse effects. 

It helps to stabilize the mood and behavior which modulates dopamine and serotonin neurotransmission. 

Pediatrics, General

Physicians should assess and stabilize the individual’s vital signs, address any acute medical complications associated with PCP intoxication which belongs to the medical stabilization process. 

Psychiatrists should conduct a comprehensive psychiatric assessment to evaluate the nature and severity of psychiatric symptoms which is part of psychiatric evaluation. 

Psychiatry/Mental Health

In the initial diagnosis phase, the physician assesses symptoms related to psychiatric disorders, which is followed by individual’s level of consciousness, vital signs, and any acute medical complications. 

The regular follow-up visits with medical physicians are required to check the improvement of patients and newly observed complaints. 

Long-term management phase is a very important phase which involves continuous monitoring, supportive care, and surveillance for late effects of treatment.