PHENYLCYCLIDINE Meaning and
Definition
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Phenylcyclidine, also known as phencyclidine (PCP), is a powerful, dissociative anesthetic drug that produces hallucinogenic and sedative effects. It belongs to the group of drugs known as arylcyclohexylamines.
Phenylcyclidine was initially developed as a surgical anesthetic in the 1950s, however, due to its severe side effects and unpredictable pharmacological properties, it was later discontinued for human medical use. Today, PCP is primarily produced in illicit laboratories and is distributed illegally in the form of a white crystalline powder or tablets.
When consumed, phenylcyclidine acts by disturbing the normal function of the brain's neurotransmitters, especially inhibiting the action of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which are involved in sensory perception, emotion, and memory. This disruption leads to altered sensory experiences, detachment from one's surroundings, and an impaired sense of reality.
The effects of PCP vary greatly depending on the dose and method of administration. At lower doses, it can induce a sense of euphoria, relaxation, and distorted perception of time and space. However, higher doses can lead to intense hallucinations, delirium, paranoia, violent behavior, and a dissociative state where individuals feel detached from their body, leading to profound confusion and disorientation.
In addition to its sedative and hallucinogenic properties, phenylcyclidine can also cause a range of physical and psychological side effects. These may include increased heart rate and blood pressure, respiratory depression, muscle rigidity, loss of coordination, seizures, memory impairment, anxiety, and depression. Prolonged and heavy use of PCP may result in persistent psychosocial issues and cognitive deficits.
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Etymology of PHENYLCYCLIDINE
The word "phenylcyclidine" is derived from the chemical compound it represents and its structural components. Here's the breakdown:
1. Phenyl: This component comes from "phenyl group", which refers to a specific chemical structure consisting of a benzene ring (a six-membered carbon ring with alternating double bonds). The term "phenyl" is derived from the Greek word "phaino", meaning "to show" or "to appear".
2. Cyclo: This component originates from the Greek word "kyklos", meaning "circle" or "ring". In this context, it refers to the cyclohexane ring, consisting of six carbon atoms forming a closed ring.
3. Di: It comes from the Greek prefix "di-", which means "two" or "twice". It signifies that there are two substituents attached to the cyclohexane ring.
