

Emergency department visits involving phencyclidine (PCP).Phencyclidine intoxication and adverse effects: A clinical and pharmacological review of an illicit drug. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. PCP is a synthetic drug made from a combination of chemicals, including potassium cyanide, bromobenzene, ether, and hydrochloric acid. This may include hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Moderate to high doses of PCP can cause symptoms of psychosis that mimic schizophrenia, even in people without a history of mental illness. Though it was briefly used in humans, it was soon discontinued due to its psychological and behavioral side effects. PCP was initially developed as a general anesthetic for surgery by Parke Davis Pharmaceutical Company. Though it’s no longer approved for use in humans, it’s still sometimes used as a tranquilizer for animals. PCP is known by many other names, including horse tranquilizer. In the 1960s, it emerged as a popular street drug and its use became widespread in the 1970s. However, it was discontinued in 1967 and limited to veterinary use due to its adverse side effects. These programs involve participating in individual or group therapy sessions during the day and returning home after each session.įrequently asked questions What is the origin of angel dust?Īngel dust was originally developed in 1926 and introduced as a general anesthetic in the 1950s. Outpatient therapy may also be an option for those who require more flexibility. Long-term treatment may involve inpatient therapy at a rehabilitation facility, which provides round-the-clock care from a team of mental health care professionals in a supportive environment. This may be recommended to address behavioral issues after symptoms resolve. Additional treatments or medical interventions may be necessary to correct any issues and prevent severe complications. Your doctor will monitor your heart rate and blood pressure carefully. Intubation or the use of a ventilator may be required in some cases to help you breathe properly. Because PCP can cause respiratory issues, your doctor should monitor your breathing carefully. Activated charcoal works by binding to the drug to prevent it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. This is sometimes used in cases where large amounts of PCP are ingested. You might also be placed in a calm, dimly lit room. This may include physical restraints or medications, such as benzodiazepines, to control agitation or treat psychosis. Treatment for an adverse reaction or potential overdose of PCP may require multiple medical interventions, including: But most PCP-related deaths result from dangerous behavior caused by delusions and other psychological effects. When this happens, you can experience symptoms like:įatal overdoses are possible when you take a large amount of PCP. Toxic psychosisĬhronic PCP use can cause toxic psychosis, especially if you have a history of mental health issues. Higher doses or frequent use can cause severe depression and anxiety, along with suicidal thoughts and behavior. Long-term use can affect your ability to speak properly or at all.įeelings of depression and anxiety are common effects, even with low doses of PCP. HPPD causes you to experience flashbacks and hallucinations for a long time after substance use. Long-term PCP use can cause a condition called hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD). Long-term use can cause lasting learning and memory deficiencies that can affect day-to-day functioning. Taking PCP (even in low doses) can take a toll on your memory. PCP is associated with several serious risks that you need to be aware of, especially if you use it often, for a long time, or in larger doses. feeling disconnected from your body or surroundings.Psychological effects of PCP can include: As you increase the dose, the effects get more intense, leading to hallucinations and erratic behavior. PCP causes psychological and physical effects that can be unpredictable, especially in larger doses.Īt a lower dose, PCP makes you feel euphoric, floaty, and disconnected from your body and surroundings.
