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What Is PCP on a Drug Test? Understanding Results

What Is PCP on a Drug Test Understanding Results 1

PCP and Other Drugs

PCP is sometimes mixed with other substances, making it even more dangerous. It’s been found in tablets, powder, and liquid forms disguised as other drugs.

Mixing PCP with Other Substances

  • Alcohol: Increases risk of respiratory depression and unconsciousness.
  • Opioids: Raises overdose danger and lowers blood pressure.
  • Amphetamines: Increases heart rate and blood pressure, leading to panic or heart problems.
  • Antidepressants like venlafaxine: Can cause dangerous drug interactions affecting mental health.

Lynk Diagnostics recommends professional testing if there’s any suspicion of polydrug use, since PCP mixtures can lead to toxic reactions and unpredictable behavior.

Route of Administration and Detection

How PCP Enters the Body

PCP can be taken in several ways, known as the route of administration:

  • Smoked: Often mixed with mint or marijuana.
  • Swallowed: As a tablet or capsule.
  • Snorted: As a powder through the nose.
  • Injected: As a liquid into the bloodstream.

Each method affects how fast PCP reaches the brain and how long it stays in the body. Smoked or injected PCP acts quickly, while oral doses last longer.

How Long PCP Stays in the Body

The detection time for PCP depends on several factors:

  • Dose: Higher doses stay longer.
  • Metabolism: Slow metabolism delays clearance.
  • Body fat: PCP stores in fat cells and releases slowly.
  • Frequency of use: Regular use increases detection time.

Approximate detection windows:

  • Urine test: 3–7 days
  • Blood test: Up to 3 days
  • Saliva test: 1–2 days
  • Hair test: Up to 90 days

Getting Tested at Lynk Diagnostics

At Lynk Diagnostics, accurate and confidential PCP drug testing helps identify substance abuse and support rehab facility programs. Each test is verified using reliable methods to prevent false positives and ensure accurate results.

Their tests can detect PCP in urine, blood, and hair samples, helping doctors and therapists build safe treatment plans.

Testing for PCP not only identifies drug use but also helps in mental health evaluation and therapy planning for conditions like psychosis, anxiety, and addiction.

The Importance of Professional Help

If someone tests positive for PCP, it’s important to get help right away. PCP can lead to long-term mental health problems and dangerous behavioral changes.

Treatment may include:

  • Therapy for mental and emotional support
  • Medication for anxiety or depression
  • Addiction counseling
  • Medical detox for withdrawal safety

FAQs About PCP Drug Testing

What does PCP mean on a drug test?

PCP stands for phencyclidine, a hallucinogen that can appear on drug tests for up to 7 days after use.

How long can PCP be detected in urine?

A urine test can detect PCP for 3 to 7 days, depending on dose, metabolism, and frequency of use.

Can cough medicine cause a false positive for PCP?

Yes. Some cough medications with dextromethorphan and drugs like venlafaxine or tramadol can cause false positives on a PCP test.

What are the symptoms of PCP use?

Symptoms include hallucinations, violence, paranoia, amnesia, high blood pressure, and psychosis. Long-term use can cause mental health issues like schizophrenia.

How does Lynk Diagnostics test for PCP?

Lynk Diagnostics uses advanced urine, blood, and hair tests with confirmation methods to ensure accurate PCP detection and guide rehab therapy.

Sources

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Medically Reviewed By Zachary Steel

Zach Steel is a diagnostics entrepreneur focused on making testing faster, more accessible, and actionable.

Written By Kristina Westerdahl

With a background in cellular molecular biology and law, Kristina’s expertise bridges science and advocacy.

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