Alcohol & Phencyclidine (PCP)
Alcohol or ethanol, is a psychoactive substance that affects the central nervous system (CNS). When alcohol is consumed, it enters the stomach and small intestine, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Then alcohol is distributed throughout the body, including the brain, where it exerts its primary effects. Alcohol primarily acts as a depressant on the CNS, meaning it slows down the activity of the brain and spinal cord. It enhances the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which inhibits brain activity, leading to a calming and sedating effect. At the same time, alcohol inhibits the activity of glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter that promotes brain activity.
Phencyclidine (PCP), also known as angel dust, is a dissociative hallucinogenic drug that affects CNS. It has several effects on the human body, primarily targeting certain receptors in the brain. PCP acts primarily as an antagonist at the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which is involved in the transmission of glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. By blocking these receptors, PCP disrupts the normal functioning of glutamate, leading to various effects.
The blockade of NMDA receptors by PCP inhibits the transmission of glutamate, reducing its stimulatory effects. This disruption of glutamate signaling leads to altered perception, cognition, and behavior, resulting in the characteristic effects of PCP.
PCP also affects other neurotransmitter systems, particularly dopamine and serotonin. It can increase dopamine release in certain brain regions, contributing to the drug's stimulant-like effects. Additionally, PCP can modulate serotonin receptors, which may further influence mood and behavior.
PCP is classified as a dissociative drug because it can induce a state where individuals may feel detached from their body, environment, or reality. This dissociation is believed to result from PCP's effects on NMDA receptors and the disruption of normal sensory processing and integration in the brain.
The mental effects of phencyclidine are highly dose-dependent. Depending on the dosage administered, individuals may experience varying levels of hallucination, characterized by sensory perceptions that seem real but are not based in reality. Additionally, PCP can induce feelings of euphoria, an intense state of happiness or excitement, as well as paranoia, distortions of thought, contributing to altered beliefs and perceptions of reality, a heightened sense of mistrust and suspicion. Dissociation, another potential mental effect, involves a detachment from one's thoughts, emotions, and surroundings. In some cases, PCP can even trigger suicidal impulses, and provoke odd, bizarre and aggressive behavior.
Alcohol and PCP are both substances that can have significant effects on the human body. When taken together, they can potentially interact and amplify each other's effects, leading to increased risks and dangers. Let's explore the mechanisms of interaction and the associated side effects and dangers:
CNS depression: Alcohol as a whole is a classic depressant. PSP at the same time is difficult to call such, but it has a certain deactivating effect on the central nervous system. When taken together, the depressant effects can be additive, leading to enhanced sedation, drowsiness, impaired cognitive and motor function, and even comatose state.
Sympathomimetic effects: PCP also can have stimulant-like effects, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and agitation. Alcohol, as we mentioned, is a CNS depressant. The combination can create a conflicting effect on the body, potentially causing cardiovascular strain.
Metabolic interactions: There are poorly confirmed reasons to believe that alcohol can inhibit the metabolism of PCP, leading to higher levels of PCP in the body. This can prolong the effects of PCP and increase the risk of toxicity.
Side effects and dangers
Impaired judgment and coordination: The combination of alcohol and PCP can severely impair judgment, coordination, and decision-making abilities. This can lead to accidents, injuries, and risky behaviors.
Increased sedation and respiratory depression: Both substances can individually depress the CNS, and when combined, they can intensify these effects. This can lead to excessive sedation, respiratory depression, and potentially life-threatening consequences.
Cardiovascular risks: PCP can increase heart rate and blood pressure, while alcohol can cause vasodilation and hypotension. Combining the two can result in irregular heart rhythms, increased strain on the cardiovascular system, and even cardiac arrest.
Psychiatric symptoms: PCP is known to induce hallucinations, delusions, and psychosis. Alcohol can exacerbate these symptoms and lead to unpredictable and dangerous behavior, as well as worsening mental health conditions.
The already intense and multi-vector impact of PSP on the central nervous system can lead to undesirable consequences for health, well-being and social status. By adding alcohol to such a difficult-to-predict substance, a person only increases the risks of sudden and severe mental and physiological complications.
All things considered, we recommend avoiding this combination under any conditions.
Last edited by a moderator: