PCP and its effects on neuron transmission Flashcards
What is PCP?
Is a recreation drug commonly known as “angel dust”
What form can PCP come in?
Powder, pills or a liquid form and therefore can be snorted, injected or smoked
How long until it impacts the brain
2-5 minutes
Potential impact of PCP
It can be stimulant, a depressant, an analgesic and a hallucinogen.
However, it all depends on the dose and route of administration
How do people report thinking?
That they know who and where they are, but do not feel really part of it.
Causing feelings of terror and confusion
Low doses of PCP
Feelings of euphoria, relaxation, numbness, sensory distortions, anxiety, illogical speech and detachment from your own body
Medium doses of PCP
Lead to confusion, analgesia, excessive salivation and what has been identified as “schizophrenic type behaviour”
High doses of PCP
Lead to seizures, respiratory failure, fever, stroke and even death
How does it affect the transmission in CNS
Impacts on multiple neurotransmitters in the brains, including dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, norepinephrine and opioids
PCP inhibits the re-uptake of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin
What does PCP block in the CNS
Blocks glutamate receptors, called NDMA receptors, which reduce the impact of glutamate
What happens to users of PCP
Can become tolerant and dependent on the drug. People can easily become addicted to PCP, which is most likely link to the impact it has on dopamine levels in the brain
What does PCP do to dopamine?
Increases dopamine levels.
Overtime, dopamine receptors will become damaged/desensitized will be required tp stimulate the neuron to a normal level
