Phencyclidine, better known as PCP, is a sedative drug with dissociative effects. Originally developed as an anesthetic, PCP is now rarely used legitimately outside of veterinary practices. It is primarily abused as an addictive recreational drug. PCP drug effects can be severe, but they can be eliminated with the right treatment and support here at Serenity House Detox & Recovery.
PCP Causes Hallucinations
One of the most common PCP drug effects is experiencing hallucinations. PCP can change a person’s entire perception of the world around them. Sometimes, these hallucinations are visual. Users might see objects or people that aren’t really there.
Hallucinations can also be auditory. PCP users can hear voices that aren’t really speaking. These hallucinations can come on quickly. Those who smoke PCP may begin to experience symptoms in as little as two minutes after consuming the drug.
PCP Leads to Out-of-Body Experiences
PCP is a dissociative drug. This means that it can cause users to feel detached from their bodies and the world around them. It is common to hear of users who take PCP and then feel like they are floating above their physical form.
These out-of-body experiences can sometimes be the reason that users gravitate toward the drug. However, it can be a physically and emotionally traumatic experience. PCP can sometimes lead to a permanent state of psychological disorders such as psychosis.
PCP Can Cause Loss of Motor Control
In the short term, PCP has a significant impact on motor control. Users won’t necessarily have control over their bodies, which means they are prone to accidents and injuries. It can lead to erratic behavior as well as slurred speech.
Unfortunately, PCP can also cause people to misjudge their own speed and strength. Individuals under the influence of PCP often take great risks. Combined with a loss of motor control, this can lead to severe injuries and long-term health problems.
PCP Causes Increased Heart Rate
Technically, PCP is neither a stimulant nor a depressant. However, it has the potential to act in entirely unpredictable ways. Often, PCP causes a sharp increase in heart rate. For those with preexisting cardiac conditions, this can be serious and potentially life-threatening.
Memory Loss Can be a Result of PCP Use
PCP can cause side effects for users in a matter of minutes. However, the drug is also highly addictive. Many users go on to become dependent on PCP, and long-term use is linked with memory loss.
Initially, short-term memory loss is likely. Over time, it can become a permanent memory loss that impacts the ability to function in standard environments.
Other Effects of Long-Term Use
As you continue to use PCP, you may experience a range of other PCP drug effects. These effects may include:
- Executive dysfunction, which can lead to permanent mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety
- Damage to the cerebellum, which is the area of your brain that manages thinking and physical movement
- Damage to a range of other organs and bodily functions
- Developing a tolerance to PCP, meaning you need more of the substance to get the same effect
- Observing withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking PCP
If you’ve begun developing a tolerance or experiencing withdrawal symptoms, you may be battling addiction. If so, it’s time to reach out to a PCP detox program for assistance.
Overcoming PCP Drug Effects Through Detox
The only real way to escape the side effects of PCP is to stop using the drug altogether. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery, clients can complete a PCP drug detox program. This may include all of the following support options:
- Family therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Behavioral therapy
- Around-the-clock medical supervision
- Dual diagnosis treatment
PCP drug effects can be severe, and in many cases, can even be life-threatening. Fortunately, programs at Serenity House Detox & Recovery in Florida can provide clients with the resources they need for sobriety. When you’re ready to work toward recovery once and for all, call 866.294.5306 today, or contact us otherwise at your earliest convenience.