Drugs in this class can have harmful effects on the body, especially when taking in higher dosages. These effects range from blurred vision and dizziness to increased heart rate and severe breathing problems.
Types of Dissociative Drugs
Phencyclidine (PCP), ketamine, and dextromethorphan (DXM) are three common types of dissociative anesthetics. Both PCP and ketamine were originally developed as general anesthetics to be used during surgery. Dextromethorphan is a common ingredient in cough suppressant medications.
Phencyclidine (PCP)
PCP is no longer used as a surgical anesthetic. It is not manufactured legally, except for small amounts for research purposes. PCP can be taken as a pill or capsule, snorted as a powder, or smoked (the powder is sprinkled over smokable substances like marijuana leaves). Some people dip cigarettes or marijuana joints into liquid PCP, then smoke it. PCP is considered an addictive drug because it can create cravings and psychological dependence. People who use this dissociative drug can become compulsive about seeking and using the drug, and they can experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using it. PCP is widely known as angel dust, but it has also been called rocket fuel, Supergrass, and embalming fluid.
Ketamine
Ketamine was initially created as a replacement for PCP. Known on the street as Special K or simply “K,” this dissociative drug is still used medically as human anesthesia and a sedative for animals. It is also widely used and FDA approved for suicidal ideation in depression. When used for nonmedical purposes, ketamine is a powder that is snorted. It can also be smoked when sprinkled on tobacco or marijuana.
Dextromethorphan (DXM)
Dextromethorphan is a cough-suppressing ingredient found in many over-the-counter cold and cough medications and in products usually marked “extra strength.” When taken as directed, this dissociative drug is a safe and effective cough reliever. Known as DXM or Robo, dextromethorphan is a popular drug with adolescents because it’s more readily available than illicit drugs. Because it is contained in cough syrup, dextromethorphan is taken orally.
Effects of Dissociative Drugs
Of the three most common dissociative drugs, PCP produces the most unpredictable reactions, especially at higher dosages. PCP can cause schizophrenia-like symptoms, along with a variety of cognitive impairments. When abused, ketamine produces effects similar to PCP, but they are less intense and shorter-lasting. The reaction that users get is very dose-dependent. At low doses, users can experience loss of memory, reduced learning ability, and a loss of attention. At higher dosages, ketamine can cause delirium, amnesia, and severe breathing problems. Low dosages of DXM can produce a mild stimulant effect and possibly distorted visual perceptions. At higher dosages, DXM causes effects similar to those of the other dissociative drugs, including feeling detached from one’s body. Because cough syrups usually also contain antihistamines and a decongestant, taking them in high dosages can produce other dangerous effects as well, including:
Blurred visionDizzinessIncreased heart rateLack of coordinationLow blood pressureSleepiness
Long-Term Effects of Dissociative Drugs
Research is somewhat lacking on long-term effects of dissociative drugs. That said, some studies have looked at the lasting effects of PCP and found that they can include:
Development of a substance use disorder Increased risk of withdrawal when discontinuing use Increased tolerance Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression Memory loss Persisting difficulty with speech Social withdrawal Suicidal thoughts
For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.
