Basic Principles Psychotherapy Narcotics Anonymous Medical Treatment Basic Principles Acute adverse reactions generally require pharmacological treatment to control symptoms. Hospitalization Acute PCP intoxication can lead to death due to hyperpyrexia and other autonomic instability, thus hospitalization is preferred.
Intravenous benzodiazepines are an effective treatment for such patients.
Antianxiety Drugs Diazepam is often effective in reducing agitation, and frequently encountered muscle spasm. Other Drugs A hypotensive drug, such as phentolamine, may occasionally be needed. Phencyclidine elimination should be enhanced by ammonium chloride in the acute stage and by ascorbic acid or cranberry juice later on. Life-style changes such as avoiding people, places, and things related to PCP use should be encouraged. Initial psychosocial treatment should focus on confronting denial, teaching the disease concept of addictions, fostering an identification as a recovering person, recognition of the negative consequences of PCP abuse, avoiding situational and intrapsychic cues that stimulate craving, and formulation of support plans.