PCP is an illegal dissociative drug. In the distant past, doctors used PCP as an anesthetic, but people began to make and abuse it in the 1960s. By the 1970s, PCP abuse was common.
The effects of PCP can be dangerous. Long-term PCP abuse can have long-lasting, hazardous effects on a person’s mind and body.
This article will explore the long-term effects of using PCP. You will learn:
- How PCP affects the mind and body
- The short-term effects of PCP use
- The long-term dangers of PCP abuse
- How to recognize and treat PCP addiction
- Where to find addiction treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find effective, compassionate treatment at First Step Behavioral Health. Learn more about our holistic substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs or schedule an intake appointment by contacting our specialists today.
What is PCP?
PCP is a slang term for phencyclidine, an illicit dissociative anesthetic drug. This illegal drug can cause cognitive, psychological, and physical effects. People who abuse it may experience a distorted sense of reality and other mind-altering effects.
PCP is most commonly a white crystalline powder. Because of its appearance, some people call PCP “angel dust.” It is also available in liquid, tablet, and capsule form.
Some common slang terms for PCP include:
- Super grass
- Killer week
- Rocket fuel
- Ozone
- Wolf
- Sherms
- Peace pills
- Love boat
- Magic dust
- Hog
- Bella Donna
- Embalming fluid
People may combine PCP and other substances, including marijuana, cocaine, and LSD. Combining drugs can enhance their effects. It can also put people at higher risk of severe or life-threatening complications, including overdose.
In recent decades, PCP abuse has become more common throughout the United States. Young adults aged 25-34 are the most likely group to abuse this dangerous drug. It is critical to recognize PCP abuse and seek treatment as quickly as possible to reduce the risk of severe harm or death.
The Side Effects of PCP Abuse
PCP (phencyclidine) users ingest this dangerous drug by injecting, snorting, smoking, or swallowing it. PCP abuse has short and long-term effects. Some of the effects of PCP depend on the dose someone takes.
In moderate doses, PCP can cause:
- A feeling of detachment from the environment
- Nausea and vomiting
- Elevated blood pressure
- Faster heart rate
- Elevated body temperature
- Faster breathing
- Disorientation or confusion
- Excessive sweating
- Hallucinations
- Loss of coordination
Higher doses of PCP can have severe physical and psychological effects, including:
- Intense fear
- Anxiety and panic
- Violent behaviors
- Muscle spasms
- Exaggerated strength
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death
People who abuse PCP for extended periods may develop a physical or psychological dependence on it. Those who become addicted to PCP typically experience withdrawal symptoms that make it challenging to stop taking it. People with PCP addiction require comprehensive treatment and ongoing support to stop using it and avoid relapse.
What are the Long-Term Effects of PCP Abuse?
People who abuse PCP for a long time may develop long-term effects. The effects of long-term PCP abuse can last for many years, even if someone stops using this drug.
Here is an overview of some of the long-term effects of PCP abuse.
Cognitive problems
Research shows that PCP abuse can cause long-lasting cognitive problems, including:
- Memory loss
- Impaired judgment
- Difficulty maintaining concentration
- Perception issues
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
These changes are the result of physical changes to the brain’s structure due to PCP abuse.
Depression
People who abuse PCP may be at increased risk of developing depression and anxiety. Some people experience suicidal thoughts or disturbing flashbacks related to their PCP use.
Social withdrawal
Flashbacks, cognitive issues, hallucinations, depression, and other long-term symptoms can lead to increased isolation. People may withdraw from others, impairing their ability to work or manage other responsibilities.
Weight loss
PCP abuse can impact the central nervous system (CNS) and body in many ways. Some people experience a loss of appetite, depression, and other long-term effects that lead to malnutrition and dangerous weight loss.
People who experience dangerous symptoms or overdose must seek immediate treatment. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have concerns about symptoms.
Treating PCP abuse and addiction is the best way to avoid dangerous or life-threatening complications. Watch for signs of PCP abuse and seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.
Recognizing and Treating PCP Addiction
People who abuse PCP may exhibit physical and behavioral symptoms. Knowing these signs can help you recognize and treat PCP addiction.
Some signs of PCP abuse and addiction include:
- Increase agitation, anxiety, or fear
- Aggressive behaviors
- Elevated blood pressure, body temperature, and heart rate
- Frequent diarrhea
- Sudden weight loss
- New or worsening mental health symptoms
- Using more PCP
- Taking risks while using PCP
- Doing dangerous or illegal things to get more PCP
- Having withdrawal symptoms if you stop using PCP
People who become addicted to PCP require comprehensive treatment, including:
- Medically-supported detox programs
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Mental health treatment
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies
Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about your treatment options or determine which level of care is right for you.
Find Addiction Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggle with PCP abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find effective, compassionate treatment at First Step Behavioral Health. Learn about our comprehensive treatment and recovery support programs or schedule an intake appointment by contacting our specialists now.
References:
- Science Direct: Phencyclidine (PCP): Some human studies
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Phencyclidine Intoxication and Adverse Effects: A Clinical and Pharmacological Review of an Illicit Drug
- NIH: Phencyclidine Toxicity
- Springer Link: The social, behavioral, and health effects of phencyclidine (PCP) use
