Phencyclidine (PCP) is an illicit dissociative anesthetic drug. Doctors began using PCP as an anesthetic during medical procedures in the 1920s. In the 1960s, people began to make PCP in illegal labs for recreational use. PCP use was common in the United States by the 1970s.

In recent years, PCP use has risen in the United States, especially among young adults aged 25-34. Research shows emergency department visits involving PCP are on the rise. Understanding the side effects and risks of PCP abuse is essential.

This article will give an overview of PCP abuse and addiction. You will learn common street names and slang for PCP.

If you or someone you love struggles with PCP abuse, effective treatment is available at the Carolina Center for Recovery. Contact our intake specialists now to explore your treatment options or schedule an intake assessment.

What is PCP?

PCP is an illegal drug that can cause physical, cognitive, and emotional effects. Users may experience mind-altering effects, including a distorted sense of reality. They can also experience psychological effects, including mood changes.

Common forms of PCP include:

• White crystalline powder
• Clear liquid
• Tablets, capsules, or pills

Users ingest PCP by snorting, injecting, swallowing, or smoking it.

The effects of PCP in moderate doses include:

• Feelings of detachment from the environment or yourself
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of coordination
• Numbness in hands and feet
• Elevated blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and breathing rate
• Confusion or disorientation
• Excessive sweating, especially in the face

People who take a high dose of PCP may experience more severe side effects, including:

• Anxiety
• Panic
• Fear
• Violent behaviors
• Exaggerated strength
• Muscle spasms
• Seizures
• Coma
• Death

People who use PCP frequently may develop symptoms of physical and psychological dependence. They may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it.

Some people experience long-lasting side effects for up to a year after they stop taking it. Some of the long-term side effects of PCP abuse can include:

• Memory loss
• Depression and suicidal thoughts
• Social withdrawal
• Speech problems
• Anxiety
• Weight loss

PCP abuse and addiction are serious conditions that require comprehensive treatment.

Common Street Names for PCP

PCP is a dangerous illicit drug. People may abuse PCP for its dissociative effects. People who use PCP frequently may develop symptoms of physical and psychological dependence.

Recognizing PCP abuse can help you find treatment as quickly as possible. Knowing common street names may help you identify PCP abuse.

The most common street name for PCP is angel dust. Other common slang for PCP includes:

• Rocket fuel
• Super grass
• Killer weed
• Peace pill
• Love boat
• Ozone
• Sherms
• Wolf
• Worm
• Hog
• Bella Donna
• Magic dust

Users may mix PCP with other substances. Slang terms for these combinations include:

• Zoom (PCP and marijuana)
• Black acid (PCP and LSD)
• Whack (PCP and cocaine)
• Alien sex fiend (PCP and heroin)
• Wet (PCP and marijuana)
• Space (PCP with cocaine)
• Domex (PCP and MDMA)

Combining drugs can increase the effects of PCP and raise the risk of overdose or other complications.

What to Expect in PCP Addiction Treatment

PCP addiction can devastate your health, emotional well-being, and relationships. It is important to seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.

Treatment for PCP addiction happens in stages. You may attend an inpatient or outpatient rehab. Many people complete inpatient detox and treatment before transitioning into outpatient care.

Here is an overview of what to expect from PCP addiction treatment.

Assessment

Before starting treatment, a medical or addiction specialist will gather information about your substance use, health, family history of addiction, and more. You may also undergo a physical exam and lab testing.

This information will help your treatment team identify any issues that could complicate detox and treatment. It also helps them create the most effective treatment program for you.

Detox

During detox, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. Common PCP withdrawal symptoms include:

• Excessive sweating
• Headache
• Anxiety
• Muscle twitching
• Diarrhea
• Elevated body temperature
• Restlessness
• Agitation

Medical professionals will assess your symptoms throughout the detox process and provide effective treatment. Your detox treatment may include:

• Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms
• Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
• A safe, secure environment
• Nutrition support, mindfulness, exercise, and other holistic therapies

This treatment can help you stay safe, comfortable, and committed to sobriety throughout your detox.

Treatment

A comprehensive PCP addiction treatment program will help you identify the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of your substance abuse. You will learn practical skills to help you avoid relapse in the future.

Your treatment plan may include:

• Individual, group, and family therapy
• Behavioral therapies
• Mental health treatment
• Medical care and medications
• Relapse prevention education
• Holistic therapies, like yoga, mindfulness, exercise, art therapy, and more
• Aftercare planning

You will find the support and treatment you need to overcome PCP abuse at the Carolina Center for Recovery. Contact our specialists now to learn about your treatment options or schedule an intake assessment.