Do I Have Phencyclidine Use Disorder?

Do you often take phencyclidine in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended?

Do you experience a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control phencyclidine use?

Do you spend a great deal of time in activities necessary to obtain phencyclidine, use the phencyclidine or recover from its effects?

Do you experience craving or a strong desire or urge to use phencyclidine?

Does recurrent phencyclidine use result in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school or home (e.g., repeated absences from work or poor work performance related to phencyclidine use; phencyclidine-related absences, suspensions or expulsions from school; neglect of children or household)?

Do you continue using phencyclidine despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of the phencyclidine (e.g., arguments with a spouse about consequences of intoxication; physical fights)?

Do you give up on or reduce important social, occupational or recreational activities because of phencyclidine use?

Do you recurrently use phencyclidine in situations in which it is physically hazardous (e.g., driving an automobile or operating a machine when impaired by phencyclidine)?

Do you continue using phencyclidine despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the phencyclidine?

Do you experience a need for markedly increased amounts of the phencyclidine to achieve intoxication or desired effect or a markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of the phencyclidine?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have phencyclidine use disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have phencyclidine use disorder, you are displaying a symptom related to it. Phencyclidine (PCP) has a high potential for abuse and can cause severe dependence. Prolonged use of the substance can lead to addiction. The more you take of the substance, the higher the risks of long-term health issues. PCP can cause concentration problems. In severe cases it can completely mess up someone’s life. In case you suspect you are addicted to PCP, it may be important to seek medical help.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have phencyclidine (PCP) use disorder. In this case it is essential to discuss your symptoms with your doctor. The effects of PCP can vary from individual to individual, but most users respond well to treatment. Treatment usually starts with removing the drug safely from the body. It is very important that this happens under medical supervision. The doctor may sometimes prescribe Valium to prevent seizures or for sedation. Once the drug is no longer present in the body, addiction treatment will start. After treatment, you may receive ongoing recovery interventions. Support is important and helpful to prevent relapse.