There are so many illegal drugs available to users it is hard to know exactly what they all do. PCP, or Angel Dust, has been around since the 1950s, although legal manufacturing of the drug was discontinued in 1979. But what is PCP and how is it still around? This dangerous drug has claimed the lives of countless Americans over the past decades. Let’s take a look at this destructive drug that was originally intended to only be used as an anesthetic. If you are concerned about a loved one’s drug addiction problem, contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston for help today.
Origins of PCP
When it was first introduced people who asked what is PCP would have been given the name Sernyl. It was used as an anesthetic for humans originally but doctors soon discovered it created numerous neurological effects that were dangerous. It was then used for a time as an animal tranquilizer but was deemed illegal to produce in 1979 when the government realized it was being abused. It is now considered a Class II drug because of its high potential for addiction.
Side Effects of PCP
What is PCP in regard to the effects it produces? It is first a hallucinogenic drug. Small amounts of PCP work on the neurotransmitters that produce feelings of calm and people often say they feel like they are floating outside their bodies. Hallucinations, both visual and auditory, are common. Paranoia and anger are also common responses to taking PCP. Physically, PCP raises blood pressure and increases your breathing rate. If you take a higher dose, however, blood pressure can drop drastically and you may begin to drool, have a seizure, or become either violent or suicidal. Immediate effects of the drug normally last four to six hours but some people may experience some effect up to 24 hours later.
Long-term Effects of PCP
Over time, addiction takes place. There are also a number of long-term effects that can seriously impact your physical and mental health. In addition, you may experience:
- Stuttering and difficulty speaking
- Problems with reasoning and memory
- Anxiety and depression
- Suicidal Thought
- Social isolation and withdrawal
- Flashbacks
The longer a person takes PCP, the worse the psychological problems become. If there is an underlying mental health issue, the person may start to lose track of reality, getting to a point where they can’t tell the difference between fantasy and reality even when not high. Memory issues are common. Flashbacks can occur at any time, increasing the chances of depression and suicidal thoughts or an outburst of anger.
Getting Clean in Rehab
The physical detoxing from PCP isn’t as bad as many other drugs. You may find yourself excessively sleepy, headache, increased hunger, and cravings. Because of the great chance of flashbacks, it is important that medical detox is supervised by a medical professional. Once you are through the physical detox process, it is time to start working on the psychological addiction. This is done with a combination of individual and group therapy that is often personalized to meet your specific needs.
Let Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston Help
Now that we’ve answered what is PCP, what can be done if you or a loved one has found yourself affected by this drug? Reach out to us at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston by calling 866.516.8356 and allow our trained staff to help you break free. In addition to PCP addiction treatment, we also offer a number of other substance detox programs including:
PCP withdrawal can be difficult when attempted alone. We are here to help you free yourself of the physical effects of this drug and begin to heal the psychological effects. You can do this. Take that step toward freedom from dependency today.
