PCP (Phencyclidine) Addiction & Abuse

PCP is a unique drug that produces both central nervous system depression and stimulation also known as:

• Angel Dust
• Horse Tranquiliser
• Hog
• Elephant
• embalming fluid
• rocket fuel
• DOA (dead on arrival)
• lethal weapon

PCP has retained popularity as a street drug and is often found in PCP-laced marijuana cigarettes (Whako Tobacco), with effects starting in 2-5min of inhalation, smoking has remained the most popular use. (Phencyclidine Intoxication and Adverse Effects: A Clinical and Pharmacological Review of an Illicit Drug)

Long-term use of PCP can lead to mental and physical cravings for the drug and compulsive behaviour to get and take it

Whilst the line between PCP abuse and addiction is marginal, there are differences, not everyone who abuses PCP will go on to develop an addiction, however, both abuse and addiction have detrimental effects on your life.

If you find yourself taking PCP more regularly, in doses higher than usual or a different manner to have a stronger effect, then you are abusing the medication. Other signs that you are abusing PCP include:

• Denial of use
• Missing work, school, family events
• Failing to meet your responsibilities
• Feeling moody or irritable when not able to take PCP
  (Drug Abuse & Addiction: Effects on Brain, Risk Factors, Signs)

The DSM- 5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) indicates that if you have had at least two of the following problems in 12 months, there is a high probability that your PCP use has evolved into a substance use disorder or addiction:

• Taking more PCP than intended
• Inability to cut back or control use
• Spending the majority of time obtaining, using, or recovering from PCP
• Building tolerance
• Experiencing cravings
• Failing to carry out normal role expectations at school, work, or home
• Continuing to use PCP despite social or interpersonal problems
• Dropping out of social, occupational, or recreational activities
• Taking PCP in situations that are dangerous to self or others
• Using PCP despite physical or psychological problems
  (DSM Library)

Use of PCP, though not as popular as opioids, amphetamine, cocaine and meth, may account for a higher dependency rate if you have the following concurrent risk factors:

• • Chronic use of PCP
  • Mental illness
    1. Depression
    2. Anxiety
    3. Bipolar disorders
  • • PTSD
    • Childhood trauma & Abuse
    1. Sexual contact
    2. Parental neglect
    3. Physical abuse
  • • Socio-economic factors
    1. Poverty
    2. Social Exclusion
    3. Social exposure to drug use
  • • Genetic predisposition can account for up to 90% of your risk of addiction formation.

Addiction to PCP often results in psychological dependence, intense cravings and compulsive behaviours as well as:

• unpredictable behaviour;
• mood swings
• intoxication
• disorientation;
• agitation
• violent, aggressive behaviour
• fear, terror, shivering
• blank stare
• rigid muscles
• pupils may be dilated or floating – appear to follow a moving object
• mask-like facial appearance
• Unexplained injuries
  (PCP)

The NHS also recommends that the DAST-10 (Drug Abuse Screening Test) assessment (Policy for alcohol referral pathway/clarify services between CAT & DAS services) and CAGE questionnaire (CAGE Questionnaire: Questions, Scoring, Variations, and Accuracy) be used by your medical provider or chosen treatment centre
You will be asked the following questions:

1. What substance(s) are you using? Including other drugs or medications
2. In what quantities?
3. How frequently?
4. By what route (smoking, injecting, swallowing)?
5. How long have you been using for?
6. Do you recognise this use as problematic?

Chronic use may have also caused you to have flashbacks where you experienced PCP’s effects without consuming it and may have suffered from recurring bouts of anxiety and depression.
(PCP)

PCP addiction treatment is available, recovery is possible with a comprehensive treatment system offering a wide range of integrated pharmacological Interventions:

• Detoxification
• Medication support if required

Psychosocial interventions based on scientific evidence and focused on the process of rehabilitation, recovery, and social reintegration:

• Counselling,
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• Social support

Under the right guidance, it is possible to learn how to avoid triggers, better care for the body and mind, and build a community of support. Our team can help you find the right fit for your treatment.