What is “Pink cocaine”?
December 13, 2024
Punchline: It isn’t cocaine.
“Pink cocaine” has been recently in the news given the recent implication of pink cocaine in the death of Mr. Liam Payne. This product may contain cocaine, but more likely it just labeled with the name of cocaine. Including “cocaine” in the name implies that this is a stimulant, and it usually does contain a stimulant, just not cocaine.
Years ago, pink cocaine reportedly contained 2C-B. 2C-B is a synthetic phenylethylamine that was found in circulation in the late 1990s. Phenylethylamines are a class of compounds that are the backbone of amphetamines and their derivatives. Addition or substitution of side chains to the ring structure of the phenyl group can enhance their psychedelic effects. 2C-B has the addition of methoxy groups and bromine, thus the derivation of the name. 2C-B is now a schedule I controlled substance in the US and thus much harder to obtain. “Pink cocaine” is also known as “Tusi” and “Tusibi” which are a knock-offs of the name of its original constituent, 2C-B.
Today’s version of “pink cocaine” can have a mixture of whatever is available. “Pink cocaine” may include MDMA, ketamine, amphetamine derivatives, fentanyl, xylazine, caffeine, etc. Probably the only consistent ingredient in pink cocaine today is the food coloring used to create the pink color.
Question prepared by: Saralyn R. Williams, MD, Professor of Emergency Medicine, Medicine, and Pediatrics