Psychiatry Core Practice Exam

Individuals under the influence of PCP commonly exhibit extreme aggression. PCP is a dissociative anesthetic that affects the brain's neurotransmitter systems, particularly by antagonizing the NMDA receptor and influencing dopaminergic activity. As a result, those intoxicated with PCP can display a range of behavioral symptoms, among which extreme aggression is notable. This aggression can manifest as hostility or violent behavior, and it is often unpredictable, making individuals under the influence potentially dangerous to themselves and others.

While excessive drowsiness, paranoia, and withdrawal may also occur with various substances, they are not primary behavioral symptoms associated with PCP. Excessive drowsiness is more characteristic of depressant drugs, paranoia is more commonly linked to stimulants or hallucinogens, and withdrawal symptoms typically arise from continuous use or dependence on substances rather than a singular event of intoxication like that seen with PCP. The striking feature of aggression in PCP users makes it a key distinguishing symptom.