What Are Street Names For Pcp

People often use street names for drugs to avoid detection by law enforcement or to maintain a sense of secrecy within their social circles. Phencyclidine, commonly known as PCP, is no exception. Understanding these street names is crucial for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to identify potential drug use and provide timely intervention.

Understanding PCP: A Brief Overview

PCP, or phencyclidine, was initially developed as an anesthetic in the 1950s but was quickly discontinued for human use due to its severe side effects, including hallucinations, delirium, and psychosis. PCP is classified as a dissociative anesthetic, meaning it can distort perceptions of sight and sound and produce feelings of detachment from the environment and self. It can be found in various forms, including:

• Powder: This is the most common form, which can be snorted or mixed with liquids.
• Liquid: PCP can also be in liquid form, often used to soak tobacco or marijuana.
• Tablets and Capsules: Although less common, PCP can be pressed into tablets or capsules.

PCP is known for its unpredictable effects, which can vary widely depending on the dose, the individual's mental state, and the environment in which it is used. Low doses may produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and mild hallucinations. Higher doses can lead to intense hallucinations, paranoia, aggression, and loss of coordination. Overdoses can cause seizures, coma, and even death.

Why Street Names Matter

Street names for PCP and other drugs evolve constantly, influenced by pop culture, regional slang, and the need for secrecy. These names can be code words, jokes, or references to the drug's effects or appearance. Familiarity with these terms can help:

• Identify Drug Use: Recognizing street names can provide clues about potential drug use among friends, family members, or students.
• Educate Others: Sharing knowledge about street names can raise awareness and help prevent drug use.
• Improve Communication: Healthcare professionals and law enforcement can use this information to communicate more effectively with individuals who use drugs.
• Enhance Prevention Efforts: By understanding the language of drug culture, prevention programs can be more targeted and effective.

Common Street Names for PCP

PCP has accumulated a wide array of street names over the years. Here are some of the most common ones:

General Street Names

These names are widely recognized and used across different regions:

• Angel Dust: This is perhaps the most well-known street name for PCP. It refers to the feeling of euphoria and detachment that users often experience.
• Sherm or Shermans: Often used when PCP is mixed with tobacco or marijuana cigarettes. It is speculated that the name came from a brand of cigarette called Sherman's.
• Rocket Fuel: Highlights the intense and rapid effects of PCP.
• Wack or Wacko: Reflects the unpredictable and erratic behavior associated with PCP use.
• Embalming Fluid or Fry: Often refers to PCP-laced marijuana cigarettes. This name plays on the misconception that the drug has similar properties to embalming fluid.
• Killer Weed: Describes the potent and dangerous effects of PCP, particularly when mixed with marijuana.
• Superweed: Another term for PCP-laced marijuana, emphasizing its intensified effects.
• Crystal: Refers to the crystalline appearance of PCP in powder form.
• Hog: Implies the potent and overwhelming effects of the drug.
• Mintweed: Sometimes used when PCP is combined with mint leaves for smoking.

Regional and Less Common Names

These names may be more specific to certain areas or less frequently used:

• Zoom: Indicates the altered state of perception and heightened energy that some users experience.
• Lovely: A deceptive term that belies the drug's dangerous effects.
• Dummy Dust: Similar to "Angel Dust," suggesting a state of altered reality.
• Peace Pill: A misleading name, as PCP often leads to agitation and aggression rather than peace.
• Animal Tranquilizer: A reference to PCP's original use as an anesthetic for animals.
• Purple Rain: Can refer to PCP when it appears in a purple-tinged liquid or powder.
• Ozone: Another term that suggests a sense of altered perception or detachment.
• PCPeace: A play on words, combining "PCP" with "peace," despite the drug's often violent effects.
• Wet: Refers to PCP-laced marijuana or tobacco cigarettes.
• Dust Joint: Describes a marijuana cigarette laced with PCP.
• Clickem: Usage and origin of this term are less clear, but it is associated with PCP use in some regions.

Names Based on Combinations

PCP is often combined with other substances, leading to specific street names:

• Fry Daddy: A PCP-laced marijuana cigarette, sometimes dipped in formaldehyde.
• Space Base: A mixture of PCP and crack cocaine.
• Illuminati: Refers to PCP combined with other drugs, suggesting an enhanced or altered state.
• Joints: Marijuana cigarettes laced with PCP.
• Tar: Black tar heroin mixed with PCP.

Slang Terms for Usage Methods

• Dipping: Refers to the act of soaking a cigarette or joint in liquid PCP.
• Running: Smoking PCP-laced cigarettes.
• Snorting: Inhaling PCP powder through the nose.

The Dangers of PCP Use

Using PCP carries significant risks, both physically and psychologically. Understanding these dangers is essential for prevention and intervention efforts:

Physical Effects

• Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: PCP can cause a rapid increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to heart attack or stroke, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
• Numbness: As a dissociative anesthetic, PCP can cause numbness in the extremities, impairing motor skills and increasing the risk of accidental injuries.
• Muscle Rigidity: PCP can cause muscle stiffness and rigidity, making movement difficult and uncomfortable.
• Seizures: High doses of PCP can trigger seizures, which can lead to brain damage or death.
• Respiratory Problems: PCP can depress the respiratory system, leading to slowed or stopped breathing, especially when combined with other depressants like alcohol or opioids.
• Coma: Overdoses of PCP can cause a coma, a state of prolonged unconsciousness that can result in permanent brain damage or death.
• Death: Overdoses of PCP can be fatal, particularly when combined with other drugs or alcohol.

Psychological Effects

• Hallucinations: PCP can cause vivid and often disturbing hallucinations, distorting perceptions of reality.
• Delusions: PCP can induce delusional thinking, leading individuals to believe things that are not true.
• Paranoia: PCP can cause intense paranoia, making individuals suspicious and fearful of others.
• Anxiety and Panic: PCP can trigger severe anxiety and panic attacks, leading to feelings of fear, dread, and impending doom.
• Aggression and Violence: PCP is known to cause aggression and violent behavior, making individuals a danger to themselves and others.
• Psychosis: Prolonged or heavy PCP use can lead to psychosis, a severe mental disorder characterized by disorganized thinking, delusions, and hallucinations.
• Memory Loss: PCP can impair memory and cognitive function, making it difficult to learn new information or recall past events.
• Depression: Some individuals experience depression and suicidal thoughts after using PCP.

Long-Term Effects

Chronic PCP use can lead to a range of long-term physical and psychological problems:

• Persistent Psychosis: Some individuals develop a persistent psychotic disorder characterized by ongoing delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking.
• Cognitive Impairment: Chronic PCP use can lead to lasting cognitive deficits, including problems with memory, attention, and executive function.
• Speech Problems: Some individuals develop speech difficulties, such as slurred speech or difficulty articulating words.
• Mood Disorders: Chronic PCP use can increase the risk of developing mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
• Social Isolation: The unpredictable and often erratic behavior associated with PCP use can lead to social isolation and strained relationships.
• Financial Problems: PCP addiction can lead to financial problems due to the cost of the drug and the inability to maintain employment.
• Legal Issues: PCP use and possession are illegal and can lead to arrest, prosecution, and incarceration.

Recognizing Signs of PCP Use

Identifying PCP use early can be crucial in preventing serious health consequences. Here are some signs to look out for:

Physical Signs

• Dilated Pupils: PCP can cause the pupils to dilate, making the eyes appear larger than normal.
• Rapid Eye Movements: PCP can cause rapid and involuntary eye movements, known as nystagmus.
• Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: PCP can cause a rapid increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which may be noticeable.
• Sweating: PCP can cause excessive sweating, even in cool environments.
• Loss of Coordination: PCP can impair motor skills and coordination, leading to stumbling or difficulty walking.
• Numbness: PCP can cause numbness in the extremities, making it difficult to feel pain or touch.
• Muscle Rigidity: PCP can cause muscle stiffness and rigidity, making movement difficult.

Behavioral Signs

• Agitation and Restlessness: PCP can cause agitation and restlessness, making individuals unable to sit still or relax.
• Aggression and Violence: PCP is known to cause aggression and violent behavior.
• Paranoia and Suspicion: PCP can cause intense paranoia and suspicion of others.
• Hallucinations and Delusions: PCP can cause vivid hallucinations and delusional thinking.
• Disorientation and Confusion: PCP can cause disorientation and confusion, making it difficult to understand what is happening.
• Speech Problems: PCP can cause slurred speech or difficulty articulating words.
• Unpredictable Behavior: PCP is known for its unpredictable effects, leading to erratic and unusual behavior.
• Social Withdrawal: Individuals using PCP may withdraw from social activities and isolate themselves from friends and family.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns: PCP can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or excessive sleepiness.
• Neglect of Personal Hygiene: Individuals using PCP may neglect personal hygiene, such as showering or brushing their teeth.

Paraphernalia

• Small Plastic Bags: PCP powder is often stored in small plastic bags.
• Pipes or Bongs: These may be used to smoke PCP-laced marijuana or tobacco.
• Cigarettes or Joints: Cigarettes or joints may be soaked in liquid PCP.
• Syringes: Although less common, PCP can be injected.
• Burned Foil: PCP can be smoked off foil, leaving burn marks.

How to Help Someone Using PCP

If you suspect someone is using PCP, it's essential to approach the situation with caution and empathy. Here are some steps you can take:

Stay Calm

It's important to remain calm and avoid escalating the situation. PCP can cause unpredictable behavior, and getting agitated or confrontational can make things worse.

Ensure Safety

Prioritize the safety of yourself and the person using PCP. If they are agitated or violent, remove yourself from the situation and call for help.

Seek Medical Attention

If the person is experiencing severe symptoms, such as seizures, coma, or difficulty breathing, call emergency services immediately.

Offer Support

If the person is not in immediate danger, offer support and encouragement. Let them know that you care about them and want to help them get better.

Avoid Judgment

Avoid judging or criticizing the person for their drug use. This can make them defensive and less likely to seek help.

Encourage Treatment

Encourage the person to seek professional treatment for their PCP use. This may involve therapy, medication, and support groups.

Provide Resources

Provide information about local treatment resources, such as drug rehab centers, therapists, and support groups.

Support Recovery

If the person decides to seek treatment, offer ongoing support and encouragement throughout their recovery journey.

Treatment Options for PCP Addiction

PCP addiction is a serious condition that requires professional treatment. Here are some common treatment options:

Detoxification

Detoxification is the process of safely removing PCP from the body. This may involve medical supervision and medication to manage withdrawal symptoms.

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy can help individuals identify and change the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their PCP use. Common types of therapy include:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Contingency Management (CM): CM provides rewards for positive behaviors, such as staying sober.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI): MI helps individuals explore their ambivalence about change and develop a commitment to recovery.

Medication

There are currently no medications specifically approved to treat PCP addiction. However, medications may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring mental health conditions.

Support Groups

Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide a sense of community and support for individuals in recovery from PCP addiction.

Residential Treatment

Residential treatment programs provide a structured and supportive environment for individuals to focus on their recovery. These programs typically involve therapy, counseling, and support groups.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment programs allow individuals to live at home while attending therapy, counseling, and support groups. These programs are often less intensive than residential treatment.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing PCP use is crucial, particularly among young people. Here are some effective prevention strategies:

Education

Educate young people about the dangers of PCP use and the potential consequences.

Communication

Encourage open and honest communication between parents and children about drugs and alcohol.

Parental Involvement

Parents should be actively involved in their children's lives, monitoring their activities and providing guidance and support.

Peer Support

Encourage young people to surround themselves with positive influences and avoid peers who use drugs.

Community Programs

Support community programs that provide positive alternatives to drug use, such as sports, arts, and recreation.

Early Intervention

Identify and address risk factors for drug use early, such as mental health problems, trauma, and family dysfunction.

Media Campaigns

Use media campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of PCP use and promote healthy lifestyles.

Understanding the street names for PCP is a critical step in identifying and preventing drug use. By staying informed, communicating openly, and providing support, we can help protect our communities from the dangers of PCP and other drugs.