Which of the following is classified as a dissociative anesthetic?

The classification of PCP (Phencyclidine) as a dissociative anesthetic is rooted in its effects on the central nervous system. Dissociative anesthetics are substances that lead to a feeling of disconnection between the mind and the body. PCP specifically induces effects such as pain relief, sedation, and a sense of detachment from reality. It achieves this primarily by antagonizing the NMDA receptor in the brain, which plays a pivotal role in pain perception, memory, and the processing of sensory information.

In a clinical context, PCP was originally developed as an anesthetic for humans but was eventually withdrawn due to severe psychological side effects. However, it continues to be used in veterinary medicine. The drug can lead to hallucinations, altered perceptions of sight and sound, and a distorted sense of time. This profound disconnection can immobilize an individual both physically and psychologically, which is characteristic of dissociative anesthetics.

The other options listed do not fall into the category of dissociative anesthetics. Heroin and oxycodone are opioids that primarily act as pain relievers and can induce sedation and euphoria but do not cause the dissociation associated with PCP. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that affects the brain's reward pathways