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Two Fatal Intoxications Involving 3-Methoxyphencyclidine
Christie Mitchell-Mata1, Brittany Thomas2, Brianna Peterson2
1Email: Christie.Mitchell@wsp.wa.gov
Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|August 24, 2017
Summary
Two deaths in Washington State involved 3-methoxyphencyclidine (3-MeO-PCP), a novel psychoactive substance. Postmortem blood concentrations were higher than previously reported, indicating potential toxicity and polysubstance abuse risks.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- 3- and 4-methoxyphencyclidine (3-MeO-PCP, 4-MeO-PCP) are structural analogs of phencyclidine (PCP) and novel psychoactive substances (NPS).
- These substances possess dissociative anesthetic effects, similar to PCP and ketamine.
- Limited data exists on the toxic and lethal concentrations of 3-MeO-PCP in biological samples.
Observation:
- This case report details the first two fatalities in Washington State where 3-MeO-PCP was identified.
- Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to detect and distinguish between 3-MeO-PCP and its isomer, 4-MeO-PCP.
- A validated quantitative GC-MS method was developed for accurate measurement of 3-MeO-PCP concentrations.
Findings:
- Postmortem blood samples revealed 3-MeO-PCP concentrations of 0.63 mg/L and 3.2 mg/L.
- One decedent also tested positive for methamphetamine, while the other had ethanol, bupropion, delorazepam, paroxetine, and mitragynine.
- These reported concentrations are higher than previously documented in fatal cases, suggesting significant exposure.
Implications:
- The findings highlight the potential toxicity of 3-MeO-PCP and the risks associated with its use.
- Polysubstance abuse is common in NPS intoxications, complicating clinical and forensic interpretations.
- Despite individuals being in rehabilitation, the accessibility and dissociative effects of 3-MeO-PCP continue to attract users.
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