Phencyclidine, often abbreviated as PCP, has been a part of public discourse surrounding drugs and their misuse for several decades now. Yet, many are unfamiliar with the range of aliases this substance goes by on the streets. In fact, the other names for phencyclidine are how most people know of the drug.
At Evoke Wellness at Miramar, we strive to offer a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with addiction. Our comprehensive addiction treatment programs are tailored to address each individual’s unique needs on the road to recovery. As an organization, we are committed to fostering a path to recovery from phencyclidine addiction that is compassionate, professional, and effective. Through a blend of evidence-based techniques and innovative methodologies, our team here at Evoke Wellness at Miramar aims to not just treat addiction but transform lives. For more information on our addiction treatment programs, reach out to our team of experts today at 866.931.9312.
Other Names For Phencyclidine
PCP is a powerful and potentially dangerous hallucinogen, first developed in the 1950s as an anesthetic. Today, it’s most often encountered in illicit contexts. Along with its official nomenclature, phencyclidine, it’s known by many other names.
Commonly, PCP goes by the name “Angel Dust.” This particular alias came into existence due to the powdery nature of many PCP preparations. However, its colloquial names don’t end there. Other popular monikers include:
- Superweed
- Rocket Fuel
- Peace Pill
- Love Boat
Each of these names is a reflection of the substance’s potent effects and its disturbing ability to heavily distort the user’s perception of reality.
Causes Of Phencyclidine Addiction
Phencyclidine has a high potential for abuse and dependence. Its addictive nature stems from its powerful ability to distort perception and create a feeling of detachment from the environment and self. However, addiction to phencyclidine is not solely a consequence of the drug’s effects, as it often occurs in conjunction with other mental health disorders.
Co-occurring mental health disorders play a significant role in the risk of developing a phencyclidine addiction. Individuals with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia may use the drug as a means of self-medication, attempting to alleviate their symptoms or escape from their reality. This coping mechanism, unfortunately, often leads to addiction, further complicating an individual’s mental health situation. Treatment for phencyclidine addiction must address not only the substance abuse itself but also any underlying mental health disorders to ensure a holistic recovery.
Signs and Symptoms Of Phencyclidine Addiction
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of addiction to this substance is crucial due to the severe health risks it poses. By being able to notice these signs early, we may be able to help individuals seek the necessary medical interventions and support their journey to recovery.
The signs and symptoms of phencyclidine addiction can be both physical and psychological:
Physical symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Numbness
- Increased heart rate
- Difficulty speaking
- Sweating
- Respiratory distress
- Vision problems
Psychological symptoms may include:
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Aggressive behavior
- Detachment from reality
- Reckless behavior
- Anxiety
- Amnesia
- Delusions
It’s important to seek help if these symptoms are observed, as long-term use can lead to addiction, memory loss, difficulties with speech and thinking, depression, cognitive impairments, and severe weight loss.
Treating PCP Addiction At Evoke Wellness at Miramar
It is important to remember that awareness is a key step toward prevention. PCP is an extremely dangerous drug that carries a high risk of addiction, and understanding the different names of this substance may help individuals be more aware and able to recognize when a loved one is experiencing an addiction to this drug.
At Evoke Wellness at Miramar, our team of addiction treatment experts understands the importance of timely and compassionate treatment for a PCP addiction. With a focus on dual-diagnosis treatments that address the mental health concerns that may be contributing to the development of addictive tendencies, we can address the unique needs of each individual patient. To learn more about our phencyclidine addiction treatment programs, reach out to our team of experts today at 866.931.9312.
