PCP, or phencyclidine, is an illegal drug that was originally developed as an anesthetic but was discontinued in humans due to its troubling side effects
. It is now a Schedule II substance under the Controlled Substances Act in the United States
. PCP is a mind-altering drug that can cause hallucinations and distorted perceptions of sight, sound, and reality
. It is known for giving users a false sense of strength, power, and invincibility
. PCP can be found in various forms, such as:
- White crystalline powder
- Tablets, capsules, or liquid
- Injection with a needle
- Smoking by applying it to leafy substances like tobacco, marijuana, mint, parsley, or oregano
The drug can be snorted, smoked, injected, or swallowed
. PCP is highly addictive, leading to psychological dependence, craving, and compulsive behavior
. It can cause unpleasant psychological effects, such as anxiety, panic, delusions, and paranoia
. At high doses, it can cause hallucinations, seizures, coma, and death
. Long-term use of PCP can lead to mental and physical cravings for the drug and compulsive behavior to obtain and use it
. It can also cause flashbacks, which are when a person experiences the effects of PCP even though they haven't used it lately
. PCP is particularly risky for young people, as even moderate use can negatively affect hormones associated with normal growth and development
