What is a common pharmacological effect of PCP intoxication?

PCP, or phencyclidine, is an anesthetic and hallucinogenic drug known to produce a range of effects on the user. One of the hallmark effects of PCP intoxication is the presentation of a catatonic display. This can manifest as a state of unresponsiveness, decreased movement, and a generally detached demeanor. Individuals may appear as if they are in a trance-like state, showing minimal reaction to their environment.

The catatonic display is particularly notable in PCP users because it reflects the drug's action on the central nervous system, where it disrupts normal neurological functions. The dissociative qualities of PCP lead to significant alterations in perception, mood, and awareness, often causing individuals to become physically rigid or immobile for periods.

In contrast, while decreased salivation, hyperactivity, and hyperthermia can occur with other substances or in specific situations, they are not considered common or defining characteristics of PCP intoxication. PCP is more often associated with severe psychoactive disturbances, where catatonia becomes a pronounced effect indicative of the drug's strong impact on motor control and cognition. Thus, recognizing catatonic displays as a common pharmacological effect is essential for understanding the overall implications of PCP use and its impact