PCP is Back in the News
Lately in the news, we have been seeing more and more crimes attributed to the influence of PCP. And in some areas, law enforcement officials say that they have seen an re-surge in the popularity of this very dangerous drug. But what exactly is PCP?
PCP is a shortened name for phencyclidine. It may also be referred to as Angel Dust, Killer Weed, Supergrass, Embalming Fluid and Rocket Fuel. Like ketamine and other drugs we have mentioned, PCP was originally used for medicinal and surgical purposes. PCP was not used medically for humans after the mid-1960s because although it did have useful anesthetic effects, patients who were given PCP also become delusional and did not act in a rational manner.
PCP comes in the form of a white powder that can be easily dissolved in water or in alcohol. PCP can also be purchased as a tablet, capsule or even in colored powder. Users can snort, smoke or eat PCP. Although people seek it for what they think are its pleasurable effects, PCP tastes rather bitter.
Another danger of PCP is that people may use it without even knowing that they are doing so. PCP is sometimes added to other drugs like marijuana, LSD and methamphetamine. Someone who thought they were just getting some “harmless” marijuana can find it habit-forming because PCP has been added to it. This is one of the chief dangers of illegal drug use–you never really can be sure of what you are getting.
Despite having a street nickname of Embalming Fluid, PCP does not contain formaldehyde. One can presume that it earned this nickname because it can put users into a trance-like state. Users have said that the drug can bring on an “out of body” experience that allows users to feel detached and disengaged from the people and things that surround them.
If you think (or know) that a friend or family member is using PCP, contact Transitions Drug Rehab Center. There is no need to seek a drug like PCP to escape from life. At Transitions we identify the roots of problem and help patients to see why they turned to drugs in the first place. Then we gently guide them through addiction recovery with exceptional service, expert treatment, and ongoing knowledge and support.
