Recommendation (from TRS)
Substance identification
3-Hydroxyphencyclidine (IUPAC name: 3-[1-(1-Piperidinyl)cyclohexyl]phenol) or 3-OH-PCP is an analogue of the dissociative anaesthetic PCP. It has been described as a crystalline solid and white crystalline powder. It has also been found in food products (chocolates).
WHO review history
3-Hydroxyphencyclidine has not previously been reviewed by WHO and is not currently under international control. Information was brought to the attention of WHO that this substance is manufactured clandestinely, poses a risk to public health and has no recognized therapeutic use.
Similarity to known substances and effects on the central nervous system
3-Hydroxyphencyclidine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist with a mechanism of action and effects similar to those of PCP, which is controlled under Schedule II of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971. Its effects include hallucinations and dissociation.
Dependence potential
No controlled studies in animals or humans were found on the dependence potential of 3-hydroxyphencyclidine.
Actual abuse and/or evidence of likelihood of abuse
Studies in animals suggest that 3-hydroxyphencyclidine has abuse potential similar to that of PCP. No studies to determine the abuse liability of 3-hydroxyphencyclidine in humans have been reported.
It is reported to be administered by various routes, including intranasally and orally. A limited number of cases of fatal and nonfatal intoxication that involved 3-hydroxyphencyclidine in combination with other psychoactive substances have been reported. In most cases, use of 3-hydroxyphencyclidine was not analytically confirmed, and there was limited evidence that it played a causative role.
Limited seizures have been reported in several countries.
Therapeutic usefulness
3-Hydroxyphencyclidine is not known to have any therapeutic use.
Rationale and recommendation
3-Hydroxyphencyclidine (IUPAC name: 3-[1-(1-Piperidinyl)cyclohexyl]phenol) or 3-OH-PCP, is an analogue of and has similar effects to PCP, which is controlled under Schedule II of the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Its mode of action suggests the likelihood of abuse, but there is insufficient evidence that it constitutes a public health and social problem to warrant its placement under international control.
The Committee recommended that 3-hydroxyphencyclidine (IUPAC name: 3-[1-(1-Piperidinyl)cyclohexyl]phenol) or 3-OH-PCP be kept under surveillance by the WHO secretariat.
ECDD Recommendation
To be kept under surveillance