Street Names for PCP: Common Slang and Nicknames

Medically Reviewed:
Dr. Michael Vines, MD
Ray Hamilton, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C
Last Updated: March 18, 2025

PCP is a dangerous and highly addictive drug that has been widely abused for decades. Due to its powerful hallucinogenic effects, it has developed a variety of street names for PCP to disguise its use in conversations and illegal transactions. Many people underestimate its risks, but this drug can lead to severe mental health issues, addiction, and even life-threatening conditions. Understanding the common PCP street names can help raise awareness and prevent abuse.

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A Powerful and Dangerous Drug

Phencyclidine, commonly known as PCP, is a powerful dissociative substance that was originally developed as an anesthetic. However, due to its severe psychological effects, it is no longer used for medical purposes. Instead, it has become a commonly abused street drug with a reputation for causing extreme behavioral changes.

PCP affects the brain in unpredictable ways, leading to hallucinations, memory loss, and aggressive behavior. It also alters pain perception, making users less aware of injuries. Over time, drug abuse involving PCP can result in addiction, weight changes—including weight loss—and dangerous physical and mental health complications.

Due to its illegal status, PCP has gained many slang names over the years to avoid detection by authorities.

What Are the Most Popular Slang Terms for PCP?

People use different PCP street names to disguise the drug in conversations. These names vary depending on location and method of use. Here are some of the most popular street names for PCP:

1. Angel Dust

One of the most widely recognized slang for PCP, “Angel Dust,” refers to the drug’s powdery appearance. It is often mixed with other substances and smoked, snorted, or injected.

2. Rocket Fuel

This name comes from the belief that PCP gives users a sudden burst of energy. However, the actual effects of PCP can be dangerous, causing extreme agitation, hallucinations, and unpredictable behavior.

3. Embalming Fluid

Some users refer to PCP as Embalming Fluid because it is sometimes dissolved in liquid before being applied to cigarettes or marijuana. The drug’s dissociative effects can make people feel numb, as if they are disconnected from reality.

4. Wet

“Wet” is another PCP drug name used when the drug is soaked into cigarettes or marijuana joints before being smoked. This method intensifies its effects and increases the risk of dangerous behavior.

5. Supergrass

This term is used when PCP is mixed with marijuana. It can cause intense hallucinations, confusion, and an increased heart rate, leading to serious health risks.

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How Does PCP Affect the Body and Mind?

PCP is known for its unpredictable impact on the body and mind. Even moderate doses can lead to serious side effects, including:

  • Increased body temperature, which can lead to dehydration.
  • Numbness and an inability to feel pain, making users more likely to injure themselves.
  • Increased blood pressure and heart rate, which can cause cardiovascular issues.
  • Aggressive or violent behavior.
  • Severe confusion and memory loss.
  • The risk of addiction and long-term mental health

At high doses, PCP can cause life-threatening conditions such as seizures, coma, or even death. It is also known to trigger substance use disorders, making it difficult for users to stop using the drug.

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Avoiding the Risks of PCP

PCP is a dangerous drug known by many names, including Angel Dust, Rocket Fuel, and Embalming Fluid. While its street names may sound harmless, the reality is that the effects of PCP can be severe, leading to addiction, mental health issues, and even life-threatening conditions.

If you or someone you know is struggling with PCP use, seeking professional help through treatment programs is the best step toward recovery. Avoiding this drug can protect your health and future.

For those looking for recovery options, several treatment programs in Scottsdale, Arizona, offer specialized care for PCP addiction. These centers provide medical detox, behavioral therapy, and long-term recovery plans to help individuals overcome substance abuse. Seeking professional support can make a significant difference in the journey toward a drug-free life.

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