Pink Cocaine: The Dangerous Designer Drug in the News

3 Things You Need to Know

A news search on “pink cocaine” shows a dramatic spike in coverage over the past few weeks. Here’s what you need to know about this seemingly new party drug – also known as “tusi”.

1. It’s Not Cocaine: There’s usually no cocaine in this illicit substance. Most samples of this synthetic drug contain a mix of less expensive stimulants and depressants, according to experts. In addition to caffeine, the most common mix includes:

• 2-CB: This psychedelic drug was first developed to treat sexual dysfunction, but it was removed from the market due to safety concerns.
• MDMA: Methylenedioxymethamphetamine is a psychedelic drug with stimulant properties commonly known as MDMA, ecstasy, or Molly.
• Ketamine: Ketamine is a psychedelic anesthetic used in human and veterinary medicine for pain relief. Unfortunately, it’s often used to facilitate sexual assault.
• Fentanyl: This highly potent, synthetic opioid is designed for treating cancer and pain management. The DEA considers this controlled substance “the deadliest drug threat facing this nation.”

Its name comes from the fact that it’s usually ingested in powder form. Its pink color is from food coloring.

Pink Cocaine is an emerging party drug that comes with an even higher risk of addiction and overdose

2. It’s Extremely Dangerous: This cocktail of synthetic drugs comes with an even higher risk of addiction and overdose. Pink cocaine’s actual ingredients vary significantly from batch to batch. And according to the CDC, “mixing stimulants and depressants doesn’t balance or cancel them out. The results of combining drugs are unpredictable, often modifying or masking the effects.

3. Limited, but Growing Presence in the United States: It’s being reported a few high-profile celebrities have used it. But for now, the party drug is mostly being found in New York City and outside of the United States. It’s being sold online and through social media apps.

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