Phencyclidine (PCP) is an illegal, mind-altering dissociative and hallucinogenic drug that was originally developed as an anesthetic. Its use in humans was discontinued in the 1960s due to severe psychological side effects. It is known by many street names, including angel dust, ozone, rocket fuel, hog, and wack.
Appearance and Usage
In its pure form, PCP is a white, bitter-tasting crystalline powder that dissolves easily in water or alcohol. On the illicit market, it is often found as a powder, capsule, tablet, or clear liquid, sometimes dyed various colors due to contaminants.
PCP is considered one of the most dangerous drugs of abuse due to its unpredictable and severe effects, which can vary widely depending on the dose and the individual.
Common Effects (low to moderate doses):
- Feelings of detachment from one’s body and surroundings.
- Numbness in the extremities and loss of coordination.
- Slurred speech, a blank stare, and rapid, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus).
- A false sense of strength, power, and invulnerability, along with euphoria.
- Increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.
Harmful Effects (high doses or long-term use):
- Severe psychological effects: Anxiety, panic attacks, paranoia, delusions, hallucinations, and a toxic psychosis that can resemble schizophrenia. These symptoms can persist for weeks or months after use.
- Violent behavior: Users may become aggressive, impulsive, and violent toward themselves or others, often due to the altered sense of reality and pain-killing properties.
- Physical complications: High doses can lead to seizures, coma, kidney failure, heart arrhythmias, severe muscle rigidity (rhabdomyolysis), and potentially fatal hyperthermia (overheating).
- Addiction: PCP is an addictive drug, and long-term use can lead to psychological dependence, memory loss, and difficulty with speech or thought.
Treatment and Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with PCP addiction or experiencing a medical emergency due to use, seek help immediately.
- Call 911 or your local emergency number.
- For substance use support and treatment options, you can consult resources like FindTreatment.gov or call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
- If you are having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
