Substance Abuse

Phencyclidine abuse

PCP or Phencyclidine, is a single drug that forms a distinct category of its own because the effects it produces are unlike those of any category. The formal chemical name for this drug is Phenyl Cyclohexyl Piperidine, from which the initials PCP are derived. PCP was first developed as an anesthetic for humans in 1959. Its use was discontinued a few years later due to its extreme side effects which included delirium and confusion. In the early 1960's PCP was brought back to medical use as a veterinary anesthetic under the trade name Sernylan. Among PCP's least desirable side effects are delirium, visual disturbances and hallucinations and, occasionally, violence. Some evidence of long term memory disorders and psychological disturbances resembling schizophrenia has also been linked to PCP.

Poisoning

Accidentally or intentionally, poisoning oneself by taking a substance is injurious to health and can cause death. Poisoning is still a major hazard to children despite child-resistant packaging and dose-limits per container.

Smoking Cessation

The chemical compound nicotine, found in tobacco, is highly addictive and once a person begins smoking cigarettes they cannot stop and often continue the unhealthy habit for years. Not only is the nicotine unhealthy, the tar from the cigarettes gets stuck in the lungs, building up over the years and often leads to lung cancer. Additionally, inhaling massive quantities of smoke negatively affects the mouth, throat and lungs. Many long-time smokers will develop some form of cancer in their lifetime. Because of the many harmful effects of smoking cigarettes, it is imperative that smoking cease as soon as possible. Unfortunately, this is usually quite difficult due to the addictive properties of nicotine and requires devotion and perseverance. Many treatments and therapies exist to help smokers quit their habit.