Embalming fluid is not Phencyclidine (PCP). These are distinct chemical substances with different compositions, purposes, and effects. While a common misconception links the two, they serve entirely separate functions in reality. This article will explore the nature of both substances to clarify why the myth persists and to highlight their fundamental differences.
Understanding Embalming Fluid
Embalming fluid is a specialized chemical mixture used in mortuary science to temporarily preserve deceased human remains. Its main goal is to delay decomposition and restore a more natural appearance for viewing, often before funeral services.
Modern embalming fluids typically include formaldehyde as a potent preservative and disinfectant (5–37% concentration). Other components include glutaraldehyde (a strong disinfectant) and methanol (a solvent). These fluids may also contain humectants, wetting agents, and dyes. These chemicals work by cross-linking proteins, inhibiting bacterial growth and slowing tissue breakdown, thereby achieving preservation.
Understanding PCP
PCP, or Phencyclidine, is a dissociative anesthetic initially developed for medical use in the 1950s. Its use in humans was discontinued by 1965 due to severe side effects like agitation, delirium, and hallucinations. Since then, PCP has been classified as a controlled substance and is primarily encountered as an illicit recreational drug.
PCP is a white crystalline powder, soluble in water or alcohol. It is often abused for its mind-altering effects, which can include detachment from reality, numbness, slurred speech, and distorted perception of sight and sound. These effects vary by dose and administration method, with higher doses potentially leading to severe psychological effects such as paranoia, aggression, and psychotic behavior.
Debunking the Myth
Despite being entirely different chemical compounds, the idea that embalming fluid is PCP is a common misconception. Embalming fluid’s primary active ingredient, formaldehyde, is an aldehyde (HCHO). In contrast, PCP (phencyclidine) is an arylcyclohexylamine, a class of drugs that acts as an NMDA receptor antagonist in the brain. These distinct chemical structures mean they have fundamentally different pharmacological actions and effects on the human body.
The myth likely stems from the illicit practice of “wet” or “fry” smoking, where tobacco or marijuana cigarettes are dipped in liquid substances before being smoked. Historically, liquid PCP was sometimes referred to as “embalming fluid” on the street, leading to confusion. This slang term contributed to the erroneous belief that actual embalming fluid was being used or was chemically similar to PCP.
While some individuals may use actual embalming fluid, this does not change the fact that they are separate substances. Smoking actual embalming fluid is highly dangerous and toxic, with any psychoactive effects incidental to its toxic properties, not indicative of it being PCP.