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Is PCP Addictive? Phencyclidine Drug Abuse Signs & Dangers

Is PCP Addictive?

Phencyclidine, commonly called PCP, was initially developed as a general anesthetic. However, its medical use has ceased in the United States. Currently, PCP is primarily recognized as a substance for recreational use and abuse rather than serving any medical purpose. It comes in tablet, pill, liquid, or white powder form.

Although it is most frequently smoked, the hallucinogenic substance may also be misused by snorting or ingesting it. Users soak leafy plants like tobacco, mint, parsley, oregano, marijuana, or other plants in PCP before smoking them.

Seeking professional help is crucial for those struggling with PCP addiction to ensure a safe and effective path towards recovery. Take advantage of your chance to get your life back. Call We Level Up Texas Treatment Center 24/7 for a free consultation. Every call is free and confidential.


What is PCP?

PCP is labeled as a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Similar to cocaine and methamphetamine, PCP has a high risk of abuse.

How addictive is PCP?

Known for inducing a sense of detachment and dissociation from one’s surroundings, PCP can also cause euphoria. However, its withdrawal effects are notably discomforting, leading to delusions, irritability, and anxiety during the user’s comedown from the drug’s influence.

PCP is available in various forms: in liquid, it exhibits a yellow or clear hue, or in powder or tablet form, it readily dissolves in water. Additionally, PCP is frequently combined with other substances, including Ecstasy, Methamphetamine, LSD, and Mescaline, often without the user’s awareness.

PCP Street Names

In drug culture, many who use illicit drugs use slang names to refer to PCP and stay under the radar discreetly. Some of the slang names for PCP are:

  • Angel Dust.
  • Dust.
  • Hog.
  • Rocket Fuel.
  • Amoeba.
  • STP.
  • Super Grass.
  • Zoom.
  • Wack
  • Belladonna.
  • Zoom.
  • Ozone.
  • Peace Pills.
  • Boat.
  • Animal Trank.
  • Love Boat.
  • Sherm Sticks.
  • Embalming Fluid.

The Dangers of PCP Addiction

PCP is addictive as it affects the brain’s chemistry, leading to feelings of euphoria. Depending on how it’s taken, PCP effects can be felt rapidly, like 2 to 5 minutes for injecting or smoking, with the experience lasting about half an hour. Swallowing takes roughly 30 minutes for effects, with intense side effects occurring 2 to 5 hours later.

Due to altered states of consciousness, users, especially those seeking sensory distortions or pseudo-spiritual experiences, may become dependent. Mood changes and poor coordination are common side effects, varying with the dose size.

PCP Addiction Symptoms

Like many substances of abuse, PCP might offer euphoria initially, but it leads to adverse effects in the aftermath. The most common signs and symptoms of PCP addiction are:

  • Drastic mood swings.
  • Impaired coordination.
  • Hallucinations.
  • Agitation.
  • Anxiety.
  • Social withdrawal.
  • Confusion.
  • Speech difficulties.
  • Memory problems.
  • Paranoia.
  • Delusions.
  • Impaired motor skills.
  • Sweating.
  • Elevated heart rate.
  • Unpredictable behavior.
  • Poor judgment.
  • Appetite changes.
  • Insomnia.
  • Depression.
  • Suicidal thoughts.

PCP use can lead to varying experiences because each trip may bring different symptoms. One person might get aggressive, while another could become overly empathetic or anxious. Predicting the specific symptoms is challenging since they often depend on the user’s mental state before taking PCP.

Other signs of PCP addiction include losing control over drug intake and escalating substance use. Prolonged abuse may lead to severe side effects such as suicidal thoughts, mania, flashbacks, and social isolation. Moreover, mixing PCP with alcohol or other depressants is particularly difficult, potentially causing respiratory distress or arrest and even death.

Is PCP addictive? Yes. Over time, individuals may develop tolerance to the effects of PCP, requiring higher doses to achieve the same desired effects. This escalation in dosage increases the risk of addiction.
Is PCP addictive? Yes. Over time, individuals may develop tolerance to the effects of PCP, requiring higher doses to achieve the same desired effects. This escalation in dosage increases the risk of addiction.

PCP Side Effects

Yellow liquid PCP is trending, especially among young individuals who dip cigarettes in it for the effects. Early exposure to PCP, like with other harmful substances, has an intense impact on the mind.

These are the most common side effects of PCP:

  • Hallucinations.
  • Impaired coordination.
  • Agitation.
  • Anxiety.
  • Confusion.
  • Speech difficulties.
  • Memory problems.
  • Paranoia.
  • Delusions.
  • Sweating.
  • Elevated heart rate.
  • Unpredictable behavior.
  • Poor judgment.
  • Appetite changes.
  • Insomnia.
  • Depression.

PCP Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping PCP suddenly after dependence or addiction leads to painful withdrawal symptoms. Those with PCP addiction experience:

  • Confusion.
  • Heightened appetite.
  • Depression.
  • Stronger cravings for the substance.

Psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia, may develop, and it can be challenging to manage.

PCP Overdose Warning Signs

Severe and unexpected symptoms, including agitation, hallucinations, high heart rate, and potentially fatal disorders like seizures or coma, can be signs of a PCP overdose. If someone uses PCP and then becomes extremely confused, aggressive, or has trouble breathing, they need to get help right away.

Monitoring for signs of overdose and seeking prompt assistance can be critical in preventing severe health complications associated with PCP toxicity.

Is PCP addictive? Regular use of PCP can result in withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not taken, contributing to the cycle of addiction. Withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, depression, and cravings for the drug.
Is PCP addictive? Regular use of PCP can result in withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not taken, contributing to the cycle of addiction. Withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, depression, and cravings for the drug.

If you’re struggling with PCP drug dependency, get treatment counseling that works. Discover professional help from We Level Up Texas’ addiction and mental health therapists. Start getting support with a free call to our addiction hotline.

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Is PCP addictive? Yes. PCP can induce a sense of detachment from reality, offering users an escape from their problems or stresses. The desire to avoid facing challenges can contribute to a psychological dependence on the drug.
Is PCP addictive? Yes. PCP can induce a sense of detachment from reality, offering users an escape from their problems or stresses. The desire to avoid facing challenges can contribute to a psychological dependence on the drug.

Getting Help for PCP Addiction

Treatment is crucial for reducing adverse effects and cravings for PCP drugs. Those having trouble might think about inpatient or detox treatment, which offers a secure setting for recovery under close supervision. Patients in treatment facilities have access to prescriptions that lessen the discomfort associated with withdrawal.

Abuse of PCP may harm the body and mind in several ways. Investing in your health and fitness requires seeking assistance and treatment. Help is available if you or a loved one suffers from PCP abuse. For those thinking about going to rehab, there are several choices for therapy.

PCP Addiction Treatment


Addressing PCP addiction requires a comprehensive approach, often combining various therapeutic interventions to maximize effectiveness. Here are some key treatment options that individuals struggling with PCP addiction can explore on their journey to recovery:

  • Behavioral therapy.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
  • Contingency management.
  • Motivational enhancement therapy.
  • Support groups.
  • Individual counseling.
  • Family therapy.
  • Dual diagnosis treatment (addressing co-occurring mental health disorders).
  • Medication-assisted treatment (if applicable for specific symptoms or cravings).
  • Inpatient or residential rehabilitation programs.

If you’re seeking assistance with your rehab journey, reach out to a We Level Up Texas treatment professional today—your call is free and confidential.

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We Level Up Texas PCP Drug Rehab

Get back on track with We Level Up Texas inpatient rehab center for PCP addiction. Our expert team and medical professionals are ready to guide you through a personalized recovery plan at our top-notch Texas facility. We combine proven methods with compassion and a science-based approach to help you break off PCP’s hold.

Reach out to We Level Up Texas Treatment Center today if you or someone you know is addicted to PCP or any other substance for additional information on how to get support.

Programs offered at We Level Up Texas inpatient rehab for PCP addiction include:

  • Detoxification Services.
  • Dual Diagnosis Treatment.
  • Individual Counseling.
  • Group Therapy.
  • Medical Supervision.
  • Educational Workshops.
  • Holistic and Evidence-Based Therapies.
  • Aftercare Planning.

Are you seeking PCP rehab centers? Get a free rehab insurance check without any obligation. The result can help you explore several treatment options.

Is PCP addictive? While PCP withdrawal is not typically associated with physical symptoms like those of opioids or alcohol, individuals may experience psychological withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating. Contact We Level Up TX now for treatment options and evidence-based detox programs.
Is PCP addictive? While PCP withdrawal is not typically associated with physical symptoms like those of opioids or alcohol, individuals may experience psychological withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating. Contact We Level Up TX now for treatment options and evidence-based detox programs.

What is Angel Dust (PCP Drug)? PCP Effects, Angel Dust Risks, and Treatment | Informative Video

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Sources
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