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PCP: The Threat Remains

NCJ Number
201817
Date Published
May 2003
Length
8 pages
Annotation
After reviewing the historical background of phencyclidine (PCP), this report discusses its forms, effects, and methods of administration; evolution of abuse; abuse indicators; manufacture; chemical sources; distribution; transportation and seizures; and prices.
Abstract
In 1963 PCP was patented and marketed in the United States as a surgical analgesic and anesthetic under the trade name Sernyl; however, due to adverse collateral symptoms, Sernyl was withdrawn from the market in 1965. In 1967 the first reported illicit use of PCP occurred in the Haight-Ashbury District in San Francisco. In January 1978, PCP was transferred from Schedule III to Schedule II under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. PCP has been described as one of the most dangerous of all synthetic hallucinogens. Abusers tend to exhibit hostile behavior that manifests itself in extremely violent episodes. PCP is available in powder, crystal, tablet, capsule, and liquid forms, and it can be abused by snorting, smoking, or swallowing the drug. Smoking is the most common method of abuse. PCP intoxication may last between 4 and 8 hours when consumed in a recreational dose, although some users report subjective effects for between 24 and 48 hours. The Los Angeles area is the primary manufacturing source for the majority of PCP found in the United States. It is relatively easy to manufacture and is commonly produced in liquid form. Illicit organizations that produce and distribute PCP operate mainly in Los Angeles and, to as lesser extent, in Houston. The recent emergence of large PCP laboratories in other locations, however, such as Indiana and Maryland, are cause for concern. According to the Drug Abuse Warning Network, the number of PCP-related emergency room visits has increased 78 percent from 1998 to 2001 (from 3,436 to 6,102 visits). PCP-laced cigarettes and joints reportedly sell for between $5 and $30 each, and PCP is available in tablet form at from $20 to $30, although availability in this form is limited.