Phencyclidine (PCP) & Sleeping pills
Phencyclidine (PCP), also known as "angel dust," is a dissociative anesthetic that affects the central nervous system(CNS). PCP works by interacting with various neurotransmitter systems in the brain, particularly the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which is involved in the transmission of pain, learning, memory, and cognition.
PCP acts as an NMDA receptor antagonist, meaning it blocks the normal functioning of these receptors.
By blocking the NMDA receptors, PCP interferes with the activity of glutamate, the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. This disruption leads to altered sensory perception, dissociation, and anesthesia.
In the prefrontal cortex, PCP disrupts higher cognitive functions such as attention, judgment, decision-making, and problem-solving. In the limbic system, PCP can induce hallucinations, distorted perceptions, and altered emotions. PCP also affects the dopamine system, leading to an increase in dopamine release and potentially contributing to the drug's rewarding and addictive properties.
PCP can produce a range of effects, including dissociation, euphoria, sedation, agitation, confusion, and altered sensory perceptions. Users may experience a detachment from their body and surroundings, leading to a distorted sense of self and reality. PCP can induce hallucinations, both auditory and visual, which can be intense and unpredictable. High doses of PCP can result in significant psychomotor impairment, loss of coordination, and even coma or seizures.
Sleeping pills, in turn, include different subtypes of psychotropic substances that in one way or another reduce the activity of the CNS - that is, they act as its depressants.
Here are the most common groups of sleeping pills:
Benzodiazepines: Temazepam, Triazolam, Diazepam.
Non-Benzodiazepine Hypnotics (Zolpidem, Eszopiclone, Zaleplon).
Melatonin Receptor Agonists (Ramelteon, Tasimelteon ).
Orexin Receptor Antagonists (Suvorexant).
Barbiturates (Phenobarbital, Pentobarbita).
Antihistamines: Diphenhydramine, Doxylamine.
Some antidepressants can also be effective at promoting sleep (Trazodone, Doxepin).
Mixing PCP and sleeping pills can lead to unpredictable and potentially dangerous consequences. Excessive sedation and drowsiness can increase the risk of accidents, falls, and injuries. The combination can cause severe dizziness, confusion, and loss of coordination, posing risks to personal safety.
The combination of PCP and sleeping pills can enhance the effects of ataxia and sedation, resulting in a potential for unforeseen loss of consciousness when taken in high quantities. It is crucial to position oneself in the recovery posture to minimize the risk of aspirating vomit while being unconscious. Additionally, one should anticipate potential memory lapses.
Both substances can have adverse effects on mental health, and the combination may exacerbate these effects, leading to agitation, confusion, and psychosis.
We do not have confirmed data on the interactions of PСP with sleeping pills, however, the generalized and dissociative effect of PСP on the central nervous system suggests that if a depressant substance is added to it, then the physical and mental health of a person can be put at risk.
Nevertheless, in psychotic states with aggressive behavior, excessive agitation, hallucinatory experiences and other side effects of disinhibition that PСP can cause, strong hypnotics like benzodiazepines can be used as a sedative.
Considering the above, we recommend treating this combination with great caution and in extreme cases.
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