PCP and Soma Create False Self Confidence

The last drug that mimics the effects of soma is Phencyclidine, which is more commonly referred to as PCP.  PCP was developed to be an anesthetic, but because of its side effects, it was discontinued for human use.  It has since become available on the illicit drug market.  The dangerous side effects of the drug includes causing users to become detached giving them a false, overwhelming sense of ability and confidence; numbness of the extremities; slurred speech and loss of coordination; and involuntary eye movements.  The most dangerous side effect has to be the false sense of confidence and invulnerability.  This is the side affect, however, that makes it the most similar to soma.  When people take soma, they gain confidence in situations they were originally apprehensive about.  When Bernard feels unsure of his status because of his size, he takes soma to give him his confidence.  The PCP also has dangerous side effects on the body as well as the mind.  People who take PCP often have an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate (Stafford).  PCP is also commonly known as the most dangerous drug to take.  It can cause violence and hostility, and produces a psychoses that is indistinguishable from schizophrenia.  With the false sense of confidence users feel, they often put themselves into dangerous situations.