A Rapid Inexpensive Presumptive Test for Phencyclidine and Certain Other Cross-Reacting Substances

Abstract

A presumptive color test for phencyclidine (PCP) in urine was developed using tetrabromophenolpthalein ethyl ester in chloroform, Levels of 0.1 mg/dL may be readily detected. Amitriptyline, methadone, codeine, propoxyphene, diphenhydramine, and those phenothiazines tested also give a color. A number of frequently encountered drugs including nicotine, caffeine, cocaine/benzoylecognine, amphetamine, and amphoteric opiates do not give a color. No false negatives for PCP have been observed (urine previously analyzed by gas chromatography or immunoassay).