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PCP in amniotic fluid and breast milk: case report.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|July 1, 1983
Summary
Phencyclidine (PCP) was detected in the breast milk and amniotic fluid of a young drug abuser. This finding suggests restricting breastfeeding and considering amniocentesis for pregnant women with a history of PCP abuse.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Phencyclidine (PCP) is a dissociative drug with a history of abuse.
- Understanding the transfer of illicit substances to the fetus and neonate is crucial for public health.
- Limited data exist on PCP distribution in reproductive fluids.
Observation:
- PCP was identified in the amniotic fluid of a pregnant drug abuser.
- PCP was also detected in the breast milk of the same individual.
- Urine samples from the abuser showed low levels of PCP.
Findings:
- This case demonstrates the transplacental transfer of PCP.
- The study confirms the presence of PCP in breast milk, indicating potential neonatal exposure through lactation.
- Correlation between maternal urine PCP levels and levels in amniotic fluid and breast milk requires further investigation.
Implications:
- Amniocentesis may be a viable diagnostic tool for assessing fetal exposure in pregnant women with a history of PCP abuse, especially when urine levels are low.
- Restriction of breastfeeding is recommended for mothers who have abused PCP to prevent infant exposure.
- These findings highlight the importance of screening and intervention for drug abuse during pregnancy and lactation.