A lethal synthetic drug cocktail known as “pink cocaine” is sweeping across Europe, causing alarm as it’s linked to a rise in drug-related deaths.
At a Glance
- “Pink cocaine” is a dangerous mixture of drugs, typically including stimulants and depressants
- Despite its name, it rarely contains actual cocaine
- The drug is associated with a growing number of fatalities, including the death of popstar Liam Payne
- It’s primarily sold online and through social media, gaining popularity in club scenes
- Health officials are concerned about its spread and the severe risks it poses
The Deceptive Nature of “Pink Cocaine”
A dangerous synthetic drug cocktail misleadingly dubbed “pink cocaine” is raising serious concerns among health officials and law enforcement agencies across Europe and the United States. Despite its name, this vibrant pink powder rarely contains any actual cocaine. Instead, it’s typically a potent mixture of various substances, including MDMA (ecstasy), ketamine, and 2C-B, each carrying its own set of risks.
Despite its name, pink cocaine does not typically have any cocaine in it. https://t.co/yoEQpBMQ8x
— ABC4 News (@abc4utah) October 21, 2024
The drug’s origins can be traced back to Colombia around 2010, where it gained the street name “tusi,” derived from the synthetic compound 2C-B. Since then, it has spread to Europe and parts of the United States, particularly in club scenes. Its pink coloration, achieved through the addition of food dye, is a marketing tactic designed to make the drug more visually appealing to potential users.
Composition and Dangers
The exact composition of pink cocaine can vary widely, making it extremely unpredictable and dangerous. Common components include ketamine, ecstasy, methamphetamine, and various psychoactive substances. Some batches have even been found to contain opioids or fentanyl, dramatically increasing the risk of overdose.
The inclusion of ketamine in the mixture is particularly concerning due to its potential to cause loss of consciousness and breathing difficulties. MDMA, another common ingredient, is a stimulant with minor psychedelic effects, while 2C-B is a potent psychedelic. This combination of substances with varying effects makes pink cocaine highly unpredictable and potentially lethal.
Rising Concerns and Fatalities
The spread of pink cocaine has been accompanied by a troubling increase in drug-related deaths. In New York City alone, overdose deaths have been on the rise, with more than 2,600 reported in 2021 and 3,026 in 2022. Officials are currently investigating whether pink cocaine has been linked to any deaths in the area.
The dangers of pink cocaine were tragically highlighted by the recent death of popstar Liam Payne. Reports indicate that Payne had taken pink cocaine before his death, with crack cocaine and benzodiazepine also found in his system. This high-profile case has intensified calls for greater public awareness and vigilance regarding the lethal potential of this drug cocktail.
Distribution and Accessibility
Pink cocaine is primarily distributed through online channels and social media platforms, making it easily accessible to young people and club-goers. Its relatively low price point, approximately £76 per gram, further adds to its appeal among users. Law enforcement agencies have made arrests related to the sale of pink cocaine, but its online distribution model presents significant challenges for control and prevention efforts.
The rapid spread of pink cocaine across Europe and into the United States underscores the need for increased public awareness, stricter monitoring of online drug markets, and enhanced support for addiction treatment services. As health officials and law enforcement agencies grapple with this emerging threat, education about the severe risks associated with pink cocaine remains a critical component in combating its use and preventing further fatalities.
