[Phencyclidine--angel dust].

Background For the first time in ten years, phencyclidine (PCP) has been confiscated in Norway. Physicians should be aware of this substance when treating intoxications. Methods Relevant literature was identified by search in Medline. This review presents the pharmacological properties and effects of phencyclidine as well as symptoms and treatment of phencyclidine intoxication. Results and interpretation Phencyclidine exhibits hallucinogenic, depressant and stimulant properties. Phencyclidine interacts as an antagonist to the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor in the central nervous system. Severe NMDA receptor hypofunction can elicit clinical symptoms similar to a schizophrenic episode.