What Is Phencyclidine (PCP) Addiction?
Phencyclidine (PCP), commonly known as angel dust, is a dissociative anesthetic that acts as a noncompetitive NMDA receptor antagonist, blocking the flow of ions through the NMDA channel and disrupting normal glutamatergic neurotransmission. Synthesized in 1959 as an intravenous anesthetic for humans, PCP was withdrawn from medical use due to severe and unpredictable psychiatric adverse effects. It remains occasionally diverted for medical use in veterinary anesthesia but is primarily encountered as an illicit drug. PCP is typically sprinkled on cannabis or parsley and smoked, though it can be snorted, ingested, or injected. At low doses, PCP produces mild dissociation and euphoria. At moderate to high doses, it creates profound dissociative effects, extreme strength, apparent pain insensitivity, violent behavior, acute psychosis, and medical emergencies. PCP use is associated with bizarre and dangerous behavior, sometimes resulting in severe injuries to the user or others. Long-term PCP abuse causes lasting neurological and psychiatric damage, including cognitive impairment and persistent psychotic symptoms. At Trust SoCal, we provide specialized treatment for PCP addiction with intensive psychiatric and medical support.
