PCP Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, and Detox Treatment
PCP Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline
PCP is highly addictive, and with repeated use, will often lead to psychological dependence, cravings, and compulsive drug-seeking behavior.1 Cravings for PCP can continue for many months after use of the drug stops.
When the use of PCP is stopped, individuals will likely experience withdrawal symptoms. Short-term symptoms of PCP withdrawal can be experienced within 8 hours of abstinence and include:2
- Fear.
- Agitation.
- Anxiety.
- Irritability.
- Restlessness.
- Sweating.
- Headache.
- Muscle twitching and tremors.
- Muscle breakdown.
- Hallucinations.
- Seizures.
- Hyperactive eye movements.
- Diarrhea.
- Elevated body temperature.
- Acidosis.
The effects PCP withdrawal can last several months to a year after the initial detoxification. Long-term withdrawal symptoms vary based on the duration, frequency, and level of PCP use and may include:2,3
- Depression.
- Suicidal thoughts.
- Memory loss.
- Weight loss.
- Speech impairment.
- Impaired cognitive function.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Mood disorders.
What is PCP?
Phencyclidine (PCP), also known as angel dust, is a synthetically produced hallucinogen that some use for its mind-altering effects. It may be snorted, smoked, injected, or swallowed.4
PCP is a dissociative drug that induces distortion of sight and sound and produces feelings of detachment. The effects of PCP on the body can include:2-5
- Auditory hallucinations.
- Image distortion.
- Disorientation.
- Delirium.
- Sedation and immobility.
- Amnesia.
- Analgesia (relief from pain).
- Numbness of the extremities.
- Slurred speech.
- Loss of coordination.
- Sense of strength, power, and invulnerability.
- Rapid and involuntary eye movements.
- Increased blood pressure.
- Rapid and shallow breathing.
- Elevated heart rate and temperature.
PCP Withdrawal Detox
PCP binds to brain and fat tissue in the body, causing the drug to take several days to clear from the body, much longer than most other hallucinogenic drugs.2 Because it can be bound into brain tissue, the withdrawal effects can be long-lasting and especially uncomfortable.
If you or someone you love is seeking recovery from PCP, medically supervised detox allows the body to rid itself of the PCP safely while withdrawal symptoms and mental health issues can be managed to keep you as comfortable as possible.
In the early stages of PCP withdrawal, benzodiazepines may be administered to control psychiatric symptoms such as agitation or seizures. After the completion of detox, further rehabilitation will be needed to prevent relapse.
PCP Addiction Treatment Options
It is recommended to undergo addiction therapy in an inpatient or residential rehab center, as this will eliminate any temptation of drugs while receiving treatment. In most cases, a treatment program consists of a combination of group therapy, individual therapy, and mutual-help groups.
A commonly utilized component of treatment programs for PCP addiction is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This form of psychotherapy treatment teaches individuals how to identify and correct problematic behaviors; recognize and avoid triggers for substance use; and cope with cravings, stress, and other issues that may lead to relapse.6
If you or someone you love struggles with PCP use, American Addiction Centers (AAC) can help. AAC’s treatment centers, located throughout the United States, provide evidence-based therapies to help you stop your substance use and find lasting recovery. Reach out to connect with a knowledgeable admissions navigator, who can answer your questions, explain your options, and assist you in getting the help you need.
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