PCP Addiction And Abuse

What Is PCP (Phencyclidine)?

PCP, the common name for phencyclidine, is a hallucinogenic drug that affects the brain in various ways. PCP was first used in the 1950s as an anesthetic and later became popularized in the 1960s and 70s as a recreational drug. Known for its ability to cause the user to detach and disassociate from their surroundings, the drug can also produce a strong feeling of euphoria. The Schedule II controlled substance goes by several street names, such as:

The drug is known for uncomfortable withdrawal effects, producing delusions, irritability, and anxiety when users are “coming down.” PCP can come in liquid form, yellow or clear in color, or in a powder or tablet form, easily dissolving in water. PCP is also often mixed with other drugs, such as ecstasy, methamphetamine, LSD, and mescaline, typically without the user’s knowledge.

Is PCP Addictive?

People who use PCP repeatedly may develop a psychological dependence, experiencing strong cravings and feeling unable to function without the drug. Tolerance can also develop, meaning higher doses are needed to feel the same effects

Upon ingesting PCP, people experience joy and a perceived clarity of thought. Depending on how they have taken it, people can feel the results of the substance rather quickly. For instance, someone injecting PCP can feel the effects in 2 to 5 minutes; smoking PCP can produce effects in the same amount of time, and the experience can last up to half an hour. A user who swallows the substance will feel its effects in roughly 30 minutes, with intense side effects occurring 2 to 5 hours after consumption.

Because of the altered states of consciousness people experience under the influence of PCP, many can become dependent on the drug. In particular, individuals seeking sensory distortions or pseudo-spiritual experiences may be at risk. People taking PCP also experience mood changes and poor coordination. Side effects of PCP vary based on the size of the dose. Common symptoms of PCP addiction are:

The subjective experience of PCP use can vary wildly and unpredictably due to the different symptoms that may occur on each trip. Someone may use PCP and become aggressive, while someone else may become overly empathetic or anxious. It is very hard to predict which symptoms will occur, as they often depend on the mental state the user is in before taking PCP.

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Other signs of PCP addiction include the inability to control one’s intake of the drug and/or increasing one’s intake of the substance. Long-term abuse of the drug may produce serious side effects like suicidal thoughts, mania, flashbacks, and social isolation.

PCP is especially dangerous when mixed with alcohol or other depressants; the combination can lead to respiratory distress or arrest, possibly resulting in death.

Prevalence Of PCP Use

PCP is currently especially popular in the form of a yellow liquid. Some consumers are young teens who soak cigarettes in the drug to experience its effects. Like with many harmful substances, early exposure PCP deeply affects the mind. Teens have a higher risk of developing psychosis later on in life if they abuse the substance.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reported in its 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health that, of individuals aged 12 and older, 6.57 million(2.3%) individuals reported using PCP in their lifetime by 2021 and 6.493 million (2.3%) by 2022; these numbers declined to5.883 millions (2.1%) in 2023. Sadly, PCP is predominantly abused by young adults and high school students. The 2024 Monitoring the Future survey indicated that PCP use among 12th graders in the past year increased from 0.7% in 2021 to 1.2% in 2022, decreased to 0.5% in 2023, and increased back to 0.7% in 2024.

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Treatment For PCP Use

When someone is actively using PCP, medical treatment focuses on safety and stabilization. Because PCP can cause dangerous behavior, hallucinations, or agitation, healthcare professionals may use medications to calm the individual and monitor vital signs. In some cases, hospitalization is necessary to manage severe reactions or prevent injury. Medical treatment also includes addressing any co-occurring mental health conditions and providing education about the risks of continued PCP use.

Once stable, PCP and other drug addictions can be treated with a combination of medical support, therapy, and peer programs. Supervised detox helps manage withdrawal safely, while counseling and support groups teach coping skills and strategies to prevent relapse, giving individuals the best chance for lasting recovery.

Find Help Today

PCP abuse can have many damaging effects on the mind and body. Finding help and getting treatment is key to investing in your health and wellness. If you or a loved one struggles with PCP abuse, there is support available. There are many treatment options available for anyone considering rehab. Contact a treatment provider now to find out more.