What is Angel Dust? Use, Side Effects, and Dangers
Dissociative behavior, where the person feels disconnected from themselves or their surroundings, confusion, disorientation, and risky behavior are also common signs. When used recreationally, PCP is often sold as a white crystalline powder, but it can also be found in liquid form or as tablets. People sometimes dip marijuana or tobacco cigarettes in PCP, referring to it as “wet” or “embalming fluid.”
Effects can last hours and vary wildly with dose, route, and other drugs used. A sherm stick drug is typically a cigarette or joint that’s been dipped in PCP (sometimes said to be dipped in embalming fluid on the street). The DEA lists Shermans among PCP street terms, reflecting this preparation. Dr. Nelson has worked in the behavioral health field for more than 22 years. He has served as a clinical director, clinician, and supervisor for mental health pro- grams in acute, sub-acute, and outpatient facilities, and in primary care. As chief Clinical Officer at FHE Health, a nationally recognized behavioral health treatment provider, he ensures quality, innovation, and comprehensive treatment for patients.
However there has been an increase in use and adverse consequences of PCP. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that at least 52,000 Americans began using PCP in the year 2020, up from 30,000 in the prior year. First-line treatment usually involves supportive care, calming the environment, and sometimes medications like benzodiazepines to manage agitation or seizures.
What Does PCP Do?
The delusions of increased physical capabilities are fairly common among angel dust addicts. This may let some users feel powerful in response to a past that leaves them feeling helpless. The drug can cause irregular breathing patterns, potentially leading to reduced oxygen levels in the body.
- People who abuse phencyclidine, also known as angel dust or PCP, may experience a wide range of short- and long-term side effects.
- Along with causing hallucinations, angel dust can block pain, other emotions, and memory loss.
- Taking PCP with other drugs, substances, or supplements, especially other depressants, can increase your risk of experiencing adverse side effects, including coma and death.
Medical Content Strategist
They could also be confused, agitated, and see things that aren’t there. Angel dust, or PCP, is a synthetic drug that was originally developed as an anesthetic, but has long been abused for its mind-altering effects. Angel Dust can be ingested in several ways, including smoking, snorting, injecting, or swallowing.
Beyond withdrawal symptoms, long-term effects of PCP use include issues with memory and learning, persistent problems with speech, flashbacks, psychosis, and severe depression. It is typically sold as a loose white powder that can be snorted or mixed into a liquid. It is also used in pill form and sometimes people sprinkle it on leafy substances, like mint or marijuana, to smoke. As a hallucinogen, PCP or angel dust can cause a person to see distorted images and affects their coordination and speech. High doses can cause violent outbursts, vomiting, drooling, or even seizures.
- However, with prompt medical treatment, many people make a full recovery.
- Under the brand name Sernyl, it underwent clinical trials on humans in 1957.
- You’ll also develop a healthy support system of professionals, family and friends to help you maintain sobriety after you complete treatment.
- If you or a loved one struggle with PCP addiction, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your path to recovery.
Addiction to Angel Dust (PCP)
On the illicit market, PCP shows up as a powder or liquid and goes by names like Angel Dust and Shermans. People smoke pcp by spraying it onto plant material or dipping cigarettes/joints into liquid PCP. Psychologically, mood swings, anxiety, panic, depersonalization, and suicidal thoughts may occur, alongside impaired memory or cognitive function. Long-term abuse of PCP can lead to severe health complications, including seizures, comas, or even death, particularly with high doses.
The Risk of PCP Overdose
So, how can someone recognize angel dust when looking at various pills, powders and other unidentified substances? On the what is angel dust side effects, use, and risks street, it’s often cut with other substances to increase profits. Prolonged PCP use has been linked to various mental health disorders and long-term psychological effects. The drug can exacerbate psychotic symptoms in individuals who have schizophrenia or other psychotic illnesses, potentially worsening their condition. PCP, also known as angel dust, has a profound impact on the human mind, leading to a range of psychological and behavioral risks.
Terms and Conditions
Focus on new activities that can replace your previous association with angel dust. You may want to stop seeing people who are still using angel dust as this could trigger a relapse. Taking care of your body by eating healthy food and exercising regularly can help you heal from the dangerous effects of angel dust. Taking PCP with other drugs, substances, or supplements, especially other depressants, can increase your risk of experiencing adverse side effects, including coma and death.
PCP is used in several ways, including swallowing pills or tablets, injecting the drug, inhaling, smoking, vaporizing, or snorting. Most of our staff is in recovery themselves with real clean time, so we understand what you are going through. The effects of PCP can start within 2-5 minutes after inhalation or intravenous use, and within minutes if ingested. The duration of PCP intoxication can vary from several hours up to 48 hours. Contact us today to speak with a treatment specialist and begin your journey to recovery.
If you use angel dust and are considering stopping, talk to your doctor or another treatment professional first. They will create a plan that will help you taper off the drug without intense withdrawal effects. “Angel dust” is a slang term for phencyclidine (PCP), a Schedule II hallucinogenic drug. Hallucinogens are used to alter one’s mood, sensory perception, and thought patterns.
What Is PCP (Angel Dust)?
At lower doses, it may cause relaxation and mild hallucinations, but higher doses can result in intense hallucinations, paranoia, and erratic behavior. Users might also experience distorted perceptions of time and space, making it hard to concentrate or stay oriented. Long-term use of PCP can lead to memory loss, depression, and anxiety.