Hypertensive crisis and death associated with phencyclidine poisoning.

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.