PCP Detox: Symptoms, Timeline, & Treatment

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Updated March 28, 2024
Updated March 28, 2024
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Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

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Edited By:

Amy Leifeste

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Medically Reviewed By:

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

Picture of Authored By:

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Picture of Edited By:

Edited By:

Amy Leifeste

Picture of Medically Reviewed By:

Medically Reviewed By:

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

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Prolonged use of PCP may trigger the development of physical dependence and addiction. When someone becomes dependent on PCP, they may experience a range of challenging and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms upon cessation. Supervised medical detox programs offer the support needed to ensure safety and comfort throughout the withdrawal process from PCP.

How to Detox From PCP

Detoxing from PCP, especially when carried out under medical supervision, can make the process safer and more effective. Here’s how to detox as comfortably as possible:

  • Seek professional help: The first step in a safe detox from PCP is to seek help from a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your situation and suggest the best course of action for detoxification.
  • Choose the right setting: Based on the assessment, you’ll need to decide between an inpatient detox center, where you can receive 24/7 medical supervision, or an outpatient program, which might be suitable for milder PCP addictions. Inpatient facilities are generally recommended for PCP detox due to the potential for severe withdrawal symptoms.
  • Undergo assessment: Upon entering a detox program, a comprehensive assessment determines your physical and mental health status, substance use history, and any co-occurring disorders. This assessment helps in creating a personalized detox plan.
  • Start the detox process: Under medical supervision, you will begin the process of detoxifying your body from PCP. This stage involves managing withdrawal symptoms and any medical issues that manifest. The goal is to keep you as comfortable and safe as possible.
  • Medication management: While there’s no specific medication for PCP detox, doctors may use various medications to treat individual symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, or depression. Medications can ease the withdrawal process and support your physical and mental health.
  • Receive supportive care: Supportive care including hydration, nutrition, and counseling is provided throughout detox. This holistic approach helps improve your overall well-being and prepares you for the next steps in recovery.
  • Engage in therapy: Participating in therapy or counseling during and after detox can help address the psychological aspects of addiction. It’s an opportunity to explore the root causes of substance use and develop coping strategies for the future.
  • Plan for aftercare: Successful detox is just the beginning of the recovery journey. Planning for aftercare in the form of ongoing therapy, support groups, or a rehabilitation program, improves the chances of long-term abstinence.
  • Stay committed: Recovery from PCP addiction is an ongoing process which requires commitment and patience. Staying engaged with your treatment plan and support systems can help you overcome any obstacles in your recovery.

Detoxing from PCP under medical supervision ensures that you have the support and care needed to safely manage withdrawal symptoms and lay a solid foundation for recovery.

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PCP Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone who is dependent on PCP stops using the drug, withdrawal symptoms can present as soon as 8 hours after the last use. Immediate PCP detox symptoms often include:

  • Fear
  • Agitation
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Restlessness
  • Excessive sweating
  • Headaches
  • Muscle tremors
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Rapid eye movements
  • Diarrhea
  • Increased body temperature

Withdrawal from PCP can have enduring effects, lasting from several months up to a year following detoxification. Long-term withdrawal symptoms are influenced by the history of PCP usage, including how often and how much was consumed. Symptoms may include:

  • Persistent depression
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Memory impairments
  • Significant weight loss
  • Difficulty with speech
  • Diminished cognitive abilities
  • Sleep issues
  • Mood disorders

PCP Detox Timeline

The process of detoxification from PCP varies from person to person, depending on factors like the duration and intensity of use, individual health conditions, and the presence of co-occurring mental health issues. However, a general timeline can provide an overview of what to expect during the PCP detox process:

  • Initial 24 to 48 hours: Symptoms can begin within a few hours of the last use. Early symptoms often include increased anxiety, confusion, and agitation. Physical symptoms like sweating and headaches may also manifest.
  • Days 3 to 7: This period typically marks the peak of withdrawal symptoms. Individuals may experience more intense psychological symptoms such as strong cravings, mood swings, depression, and in some cases, hallucinations or delusions. Physical symptoms might include nausea, muscle aches, and insomnia.
  • Week 2 onwards: While the acute phase of withdrawal generally diminishes after the first week, some people may continue to experience lingering symptoms like cravings, depression, and cognitive difficulties for weeks or months. This phase is described clinically as PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome).

Detox is the first fundamental step in treatment for PCP addiction and addresses the issue of physical dependence. Following detox, ongoing therapy and support help people manage the psychological aspect of PCP addiction. Professional detox centers often provide or can recommend subsequent treatment options, including therapy and support groups, to help manage PAWS and reduce the risk of relapse.

PCP Withdrawal Treatment

Managing PCP withdrawal effectively requires a wide-reaching approach that addresses both physical symptoms and psychological support. Treatment typically involves several key components to ensure a safe and supportive detox process:

  • Medical supervision: Continuous medical monitoring during the detox phase helps manage acute withdrawal symptoms. Healthcare professionals can provide medications to alleviate discomfort and treat any complications that arise.
  • Medication management: Doctors may prescribe medications to address specific symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances. These medications help stabilize the person and reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
  • Therapeutic support: Psychological support through counseling or therapy helps people cope with the emotional and mental health challenges of withdrawal – cravings, anxiety, and depression, for instance. Therapy can also begin to address issues underpinning substance use.
  • Nutritional and hydration support: Proper nutrition and hydration help the body recover during PCP detoxification. Detox centers may provide nutritional supplements and balanced meals to support overall health and wellness.
  • Aftercare planning: A core component of withdrawal treatment is planning for what comes next. This involves setting up ongoing support, whether through residential treatment, outpatient programs, therapy, or support groups, to help maintain sobriety and prevent relapse.

Effective PCP withdrawal treatment combines these elements to support people through the challenging detox process and transition to ongoing treatment for a fruitful recovery journey.

Finding a Good PCP Detox Center

When looking for a reputable PCP detox center, start by searching for facilities that specialize in treating PCP withdrawal, ensuring that they have a proven track record in successfully managing the detoxification process.

Verify the center’s accreditation and certification by recognized health organizations, as this indicates adherence to quality standards in addiction care and maximizes the chances of receiving quality care. Additionally, review the qualifications and experience of the healthcare professionals on staff, including addiction specialists and mental health practitioners.

Explore the detox center’s approach to treatment, which should include comprehensive medical supervision, personalized care plans, and access to therapeutic services to address psychological aspects of addiction.

Consider the center’s environment and amenities. A calm, supportive atmosphere can dramatically improve your comfort and overall recovery experience.

Ask about the support available after detox and the transition to ongoing addiction treatment services like therapy and inpatient or outpatient rehab.

Finally, inquire about insurance coverage and payment options to ensure that the detox services are accessible and affordable for your financial situation.

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Get Treatment for PCP Addiction at California Detox

Detoxing from drugs like PCP can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous without medical supervision. Avoid this by choosing supervised medical detoxification at California Detox.

After addressing the issue of physical drug dependence at our rehab center in Laguna Beach, CA, you can move directly into ongoing treatment. Our inpatient program provides an immersive and structured environment in which you can tackle the psychological component of PCP addiction with peers undergoing similar experiences.

At California Detox, all addiction treatment programs are personalized, drawing from the following therapies:

Call 949.694.8305 today and begin your recovery from PCP addiction right away.

FAQs

If you want to detox from PCP safely, engage with professional help. Detoxing at a licensed medical detox center or inpatient rehab will provide the support you need to mitigate complications and relapse while reducing discomfort during withdrawal.
Finding a PCP withdrawal center involves searching facilities that specialize in substance abuse treatment. Begin by consulting a healthcare provider for recommendations or use an online directory of accredited treatment centers.

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