Hypertensive crisis and death associated with phencyclidine poisoning
J. W. Eastman and S. N. Cohen
Phencyclidine hydrochloride is a dangerous drug. Its incidence as the
causative agent in childhood poisoning is increasing. A pressor effect of
phencyclidine has been noted in studies both in man and in experimental
animals. We summarize seven cases of poisoning with this drug, including
one in which death occurred following a hypertensive crisis. Patients who
have ingested this drug should have continuous monitoring of blood pressure
in an intensive care unit.
