Is PCP (Phencyclidine) Addictive? Addiction, Abuse & Treatment

Phencyclidine, also known as PCP, was initially used as an intravenous anesthetic. Nowadays, it has been used as a potent hallucinogen with addictive qualities. Investigating the addictive characteristics of PCP, including its potential for abuse and associated hazards, can give insights into the struggle for abuse and its effective treatment.

What Is PCP (Phencyclidine)?

• Definition of PCP

Phencyclidine, or PCP, is an illegal substance classified as a hallucinogen. It alters the mind’s perception and makes you see, hear, and feel things that aren’t real. PCP is usually a white powder that can be sniffed, snorted, or dissolved in liquid. It is often used a an additive of other illegal drugs nowadays.

• Historical background and origin

PCP was first synthesized in 1926 by medicinal chemist Dr. Victor Maddox to act as a surgical anesthetic. However, due to its adverse reactions, such as hallucinations, delirium, and agitation, it was banned from medical use in humans in the 1950s.

In the 1960s and 1970s, PCP emerged as a recreational drug with various street names, such as “angel dust.” It was even named “America’s Most Dangerous Drug” in the 1970s due to its dissociative and hallucinogenic effects. This led to its illegal recreational usage. PCP use became a significant problem due to its unpredictable effects and frequently lethal consequences.

• Legal status and regulation

PCP is illegal since it is a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule II substances, such as cocaine and methamphetamine, have a significant potential for abuse. Abuse of these substances can result in severe psychological or physical dependence.

• Common street names and forms

Phencyclidine is typically used as a white powder or dissolved in liquids such as water and alcohol. It is utilized in several ways, such as:

• Smoking
• Swallowing
• Snorting
• Injections

Here are the common street names of PCP:

• Angel Dust
• Hog
• Ozone
• Rocket Fuel
• Shermans, Wack
• Crystal 
• Embalming Fluid

When PCP is combined with marijuana, it’s often called:

• Killer Joint
• Super Grass
• Fry
• Lovelies
• Wets
• Waters

Effects of PCP

PCP has both physical and psychological effects, such as the following:

Physical:

• Increased heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Fast breathing
• Elevated body temperature.
• Involuntary eye movement
• Impaired coordination
• Muscle rigidity

Psychological:

• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Restlessness
• Mood swings
• Vivid or disturbing hallucinations
• Altered perception of time and space
• Impaired memory
• Lack of focus
• Slurred, incoherent speech
• Disorganized thoughts
• Feeling disconnected from surroundings, body, or emotions

Phencyclidine (PCP) consumption can have long-term impacts on cognition, emotions, and mental health. Here are some of the delayed and long-term effects:

• Impaired memory
• Inability to focus
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Disorganized thinking
• Flashbacks
• Disassociation
• Mood swings
• Difficulty maintaining relationships, work, and daily activities
• Psychiatric disorders that can lead to schizophrenia

Is PCP (Phencyclidine) Addictive?

• Defining addiction and dependence

Addiction is a complicated illness defined by obsessive drug seeking, continuing use despite adverse effects, and long-term brain alterations. It affects the mind and behavior.

Dependence, on the other hand, is the physiological adaptation to a substance that causes withdrawal symptoms when its usage is lessened or discontinued. It happens when an individual abuses a substance for a long time.

• Scientific understanding of PCP addiction potential

PCP is known for its addictive characteristics. It works as a dissociative anesthetic by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, mainly glutamate. The drug’s interaction with the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor adds to its hallucinogenic properties. The neurobiological mechanisms behind PCP addiction change the brain’s reward pathway.

• Factors contributing to PCP addiction risk

Several factors contribute to the risk of PCP addiction, such as:

Drug Dosage and Potency: A higher dose of PCP can result in more intense effects, thus increasing the potential for dependence.

Unpredictable Effects: PCP users may experience unpredictable effects with every intake. The variety of impacts can make the drug more appealing.

Potential for Acute Mental Problems: PCP use has been linked to acute mental issues such as hallucinations and delusions. Individuals who wish to escape reality may get enticed to use the drug often. 

Genetics: Certain individuals may have a genetic predisposition that makes them more likely to develop dependent on chemicals such as PCP.

Existing Mental Condition: Individuals with pre-existing mental health disorders may be more susceptible to PCP addiction. Drug abuse can aggravate symptoms or interact badly with underlying psychiatric problems, culminating in a vicious cycle of drug addiction.

Environmental Influences: Peer pressure, stressful environment, and access to the drug can contribute to PCP addiction risk.

• The distinction between physical and psychological addiction

When people talk about psychological and physical addiction, it’s like saying there are two separate parts to addiction: one related to your mind (psychological) and the other to your body (physiological). Some argue that seeing them as entirely separate is inaccurate, like thinking of them as two different things. 

However, it doesn’t mean that the behaviors and the physical symptoms of addiction come from the same parts of the brain. There are some similarities, but they probably involve different parts, even though they’re connected in some ways.

Physical addiction manifests in tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. Tolerance is when the body gets used to a drug and may require higher doses to achieve the same effect. Withdrawal symptoms occur when uncomfortable symptoms appear once the drug is lessened or stopped.

Psychological addiction is the emotional and mental response to substance dependence. Cravings are a psychological addiction that drives a person to desire more of the drug. Mental addiction also results in compulsive behavior that negatively affects the person’s life.

PCP Abuse and Addiction

• How PCP Abuse Leads to Addiction

PCP addiction might begin with recreational use and gradually progress to addiction. Here is how PCP abuse can lead to addiction:

1. Starting with experimental use due to peer pressure or curiosity.
2. Using in social situations for fun or socializing.
3. Increased frequency of use as tolerance develops.
4. An increased dose is required to have the same effect.
5. A preoccupation or craving for PCP use.
6. Neglecting responsibilities as a result of usage obsession
7. Issues with relationships and finances.
8. Inability to discontinue PCP use.
9. Prioritizing substance use over relationships, daily tasks, and adverse effects.
10. Withdrawal symptoms show when the drug dose is decreased or use is stopped

• Examining Modern PCP Use

Although PCP use has dropped since its peak in the 1970s and 1980s, it remains an issue in some communities. Modern patterns of PCP use frequently involve irregular or recreational use rather than widespread, chronic abuse. Age, socioeconomic level, and urbanization can all influence PCP abuse PCP use is sometimes linked to polydrug use, in which people combine it with other substances, such as marijuana to increase or change its effects.

PCP is frequently illegally synthesized in secret labs. It can also be sold into a country from areas where it is produced illegally. The illegal market for PCP is based on street sales and distribution networks. While less widespread, PCP has been sold via online platforms on the dark web. This presents difficulties for law enforcement in tracking and limiting its spread. PCP may be found in specific illicit drug marketplaces where it is mixed with other drugs.

• Signs of PCP Abuse

Recognizing the indicators of PCP abuse is critical for timely intervention and obtaining assistance from experts. If someone exhibits these symptoms, it is vital to encourage them to speak with healthcare providers or addiction specialists about the potential effects of PCP misuse and how to rehabilitate them. 

PCP abuse has a number of signs, including:

• Slurred speech
• Impaired body coordination
• Hallucinations
• Aggressiveness
• Restlessness
• Agitation
• Detachment from reality
• Blank stare
• Involuntary eye movements
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Fever
• Sweating
• Isolation 
• Decline in occupational or academic performance 
• Engaging in illegal activities 
• Relationship strains
• Financial Struggles
• Neglect of personal hygiene
• Mood Swings 

PCP Overdose and Toxicity

• Factors influencing overdose risk

The factors that influence PCP overdose risk are:

• High dosage
• Impure or contaminated PCP
• Individual tolerance
• Inconsistent drug purity

• Mixing PCP with Alcohol and Other Drugs

PCP combined with alcohol has a more substantial depressive effect on the central nervous system. This can result in increased sedation, reduced coordination, and a higher risk of accidents.

PCP is also frequently used in combination with other narcotics, like marijuana or synthetic substances. Polydrug use worsens the effects and increases the risk of adverse responses. Combining PCP with other substances can cause unexpected reactions. 

For example, mixing PCP with stimulants may have opposing effects, increasing the strain on the cardiovascular system. Generally, mixing PCP with other harmful substances can worsen the impact, especially when it comes to mental conditions.

• Symptoms of PCP Use Disorder

The symptoms of PCP use disorder can range from physical to mental and behavioral.

Diagnostic criteria for PCP use disorder

The diagnostic criteria for PCP use disorder, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), include:

Impaired control over substance use – Taking the substance in higher doses and for longer periods of time than intended.

Social impairment – Substance abuse hinders one’s capacity to complete significant tasks at a job, school, or home.

Risky use – Persistent substance usage while knowing that it can create or worsen health or psychological difficulties.

Pharmacologic – Individuals require increasing amounts of the drug to produce the intended effect.

Behavioral and psychological symptoms

• Frequent and intense cravings for PCP cause compulsive attempts to obtain and use the drug.
• Unpredictable and strong mood swings might range from extreme happiness to profound sadness.
• PCP use can cause memory, focus, and other cognitive functioning difficulties.
• Experience vivid hallucinations and delusions that disrupt vision and thinking processes.
• Agitation and restlessness are enhanced, as is the chance of aggressive conduct.
• Withdrawing from social activities and relationships as a result of a concern with PCP use

The impact on daily life and relationships

• Reduced performance at work or in academic settings as a result of PCP use.
• Engaging in criminal conduct while under the influence of PCP carries legal ramifications.
• Financial concerns stemming from the cost of obtaining a PCP and the possibility of job loss.
• Relationships with friends, family, and colleagues have been strained as a result of PCP use’s impact on behavior.
• Neglecting responsibilities and commitments in favor of PCP use.
• Physical and mental health difficulties originating from PCP use contribute to a reduction in general well-being.

PCP Addiction Treatment, Detox, and Rehab

Addiction treatment is a complex process that typically begins with detoxification to eliminate toxic substances from the system. Seeking professional help is vital for recovery and long-term sobriety.

Here are the steps in PCP addiction treatment:

Detoxification

During detox, clinical professionals assess the patient’s physical and psychological condition, considering intoxication and withdrawal risk to determine the appropriate detox level and create a personalized treatment plan. The detox clinic employs approved therapies and medications to facilitate a safe withdrawal.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is an option after detox, offering benefits such as safety, distance from triggers and external influences, and a sense of community and support. The experience in an inpatient drug and alcohol rehab varies based on the program type, with patients often staying full-time for varying durations.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment involves regular visits to a treatment center, hospital, mental health clinic, or behavioral counselor within specific hours and days, accommodating patients to manage treatment alongside personal, family, and professional responsibilities.

Therapy

Therapeutic modalities aid individuals on their rehabilitation journey, including psychotherapy, counseling, mindfulness, meditation, and holistic therapies. Integrating these modalities ensures a comprehensive and personalized rehabilitation process.

Supportive Community

Supportive communities, such as sober living homes, offer a drug-free environment with peer support for individuals transitioning from intensive addiction treatment to an independent life. Residents benefit from disciplined routines, life skill development, and accountability, fostering long-term healing.

Aftercare Programs

Aftercare programs provide ongoing support for post-addiction treatment, including continued therapy, participation in support groups, sober living homes, skill-building programs, and family involvement. These activities contribute to sustained recovery and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about PCP (Phencyclidine) Addiction, Abuse and Treatment