PCP acts as a NMDA receptor antagonist by blocking the receptors central calcium channel. Through this, glutamate is prevented from having its usual effects. This is similar in other NMDA antagonists as well.

University of Rochester

An anesthetic agent that is also a psychedelic drug. Can make people feel disassociated from themselves and their environment.

- PCP and Schizophrenia

- How PCP works

Phencyclidine (PCP)

Breedlove, S. & Watson, N. (2017). Behavioral neuroscience, eighth edition. Oxford University Press.

Behavioral Neuroscience 8th Edition

PCP produces symptoms that closely resemble the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as auditory hallucinations, strange depersonalization, and disorientation.

Phencyclidine and Schizophrenia

How Phencyclidine Works and its Effect on the NMDA Receptor

A drug is administered that prevents the neurotransmitter glutamate from having its usual effects at a specific type of receptor. An individual who takes this drug experiences disorganized thoughts, emotional flatness, and a feeling of being disconnected from their own body and environment. Based on these effects, what is the most logical conclusion one can draw about the role of this neurotransmitter system?

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