Clinical pharmacology of phencyclidine toxicity
American Journal of Psychiatry November 1, 1977 DOI: 10.1176/ajp.134.11.1234 via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractPhencyclidine (PCP) has a unique action compared with other psychedelic drugs, and its effects depend less on the individual's personality than do those of LSD or mescaline. The authors describe the sensory, psychological, and behavioral symptoms of PCP intoxication. Most cases are short-lived, and observation with minimal stimulation and diazepam may be sufficient treatment. However, prolonged and severe behavioral disturbances, worsening of preexisting thought disorders, and serious medical complications are common and must be addressed in the treatment plan.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Intervention | diazepam |
| Topics | Mescaline |
| Keywords | Phencyclidine Diazepam Psychology Methaqualone |
| Citations | 67 |
| Key finding | Phencyclidine intoxication typically requires only observation and diazepam for short-duration cases, but prolonged behavioral disturbances, exacerbation of thought disorders, and serious medical complications are common. |
Abstract
Phencyclidine appears to be unique in action compared with other psychedelic drugs, and its effects are less dependent upon the individual's personality than are the effects of LSD or mescaline. The authors discuss the sensory, psychological, and behavioral symptoms of phencyclidine intoxication. Most cases are of short duration and the only treatment necessary may be observation together with minimal stimulation and diazepam. However, prolonged and severe behavioral disturbances, exaggeration of preexisting thought disorder, and serious medical complications commonly occur and must be considered in the treatment plan.