O-PCE (2-Oxo-PCE) Dissociative Anesthetic | New Designer Drug

In recent years, the internet has become a popular marketplace for new psychoactive substances. These substances, which are also called designer drugs or research chemicals, are synthetic (human-made) drugs designed to mimic the effects of well-known controlled substances. 

One new psychoactive substance that has been gaining popularity is called O-PCE. Here’s what you should know about this dangerous drug. 

What Is O-PCE?

O-PCE is a dissociative anesthetic. It’s also known as 2-Oxo-PCE, N-ethyldeschloroketamine, deschloro-N-ethyl-ketamine, and 2-(ethylamino)-2-phenyl-cyclohexanone. 

First synthesized in 1962, the drug is a derivative of deschloroketamine (DCK). Like DCK, it belongs to the arylcyclohexylamine class of drugs. Other drugs in this class include:

• ketamine
• phencyclidine (PCP)
• methoxetamine (MXE)
• eticyclidone
• 3-MeO-PCE

Arylcyclohexylamine drugs are NMDA receptor antagonists. That means they block communication between NMDA (N-Methyl-D-aspartate) receptors. These receptors help regulate important brain functions, including memory and learning. 

Effects Of O-PCE

As with other new psychoactive substances, there has been very little research on the effects of O-PCE. According to user reports, though, the drug’s effects resemble those of other dissociative anesthetics, such as ketamine.

However, O-PCE seems to have stronger stimulant effects (such as faster heart rate and high blood pressure) compared to other dissociative anesthetics. 

Users say the stimulant effects are strongest in the first half of the experience. Dissociative effects (such as amnesia and immobility) are strongest in the second half.

Like other drugs, O-PCE has both physical and psychological effects.

Physical Effects

Physical effects of O-PCE may include:

• pain relief
• nausea
• dizziness
• double vision
• involuntary eye movements
• numbness
• immobility
• faster heart rate
• high blood pressure
• loss of motor control

Psychological Effects

Psychological effects of O-PCE may include:

• sedation
• amnesia (memory loss)
• euphoria (intense joy)
• creativity enhancement
• derealization (a sense of detachment from your surroundings)
• depersonalization (a sense of detachment from your body) 
• anxiety
• altered sense of time
• mood swings
• hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t really there)

Dangers Of O-PCE

More research is needed to determine the dangers of O-PCE, including its toxicity. However, user reports suggest the drug poses the following risks:

Urinary Tract Issues

Like ketamine, O-PCE seems to cause urinary tract issues if you use it on a regular basis. These issues may include:

• frequent urges to urinate, even when your bladder is empty
• pressure or pain in the bladder
• hematuria (blood in the urine)
• incontinence (loss of bladder control)
• urinary tract infection (inflammation of the bladder)

Overdose

Symptoms of an O-PCE overdose may include:

• nausea and vomiting
• trouble breathing
• chest pain
• irregular heartbeat
• immobility
• confusion
• hallucinations
• seizures
• loss of consciousness

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek medical help right away. When left untreated, an O-PCE overdose can be life-threatening. For example, if you experience both nausea and immobility, you may choke on your vomit. 

Researchers have not yet determined the amount of O-PCE that can cause an overdose. To stay safe, it’s best to avoid the drug altogether. 

Addiction

Regular use of O-PCE may lead to addiction. Addiction is a serious disease that makes you feel unable to stop using a drug. The most common symptoms are physical dependence and tolerance.

Other symptoms of O-PCE addiction may include:

• loss of motivation
• loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• trouble concentrating 
• avoidance of family and friends
• decline in personal hygiene

O-PCE Abuse & Addiction Treatment Options

If you or someone you love struggles with O-PCE use, seek help at a substance abuse treatment program. 

Some of these programs are inpatient, which means you live at a treatment facility and receive 24/7 supervision. Other programs are outpatient, which means you live at home and regularly visit a treatment facility. Your doctor can help you determine which option is right for you.

Whether inpatient or outpatient, substance abuse treatment programs offer a variety of services to help you stop using O-PCE. Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may include:

• medical detox to help you manage withdrawal symptoms
• behavioral therapy to help you manage drug cravings and other mental health concerns
• support groups to connect you with other people recovering from substance abuse

To learn more about drug addiction treatment options, please reach out to an Ark Behavioral Health specialist. Our compassionate treatment providers offer personalized, evidence-based services to help you or your loved one stay drug-free.