In recent weeks, a new party drug known as “pink cocaine” has been causing alarm among experts and health officials. Despite its catchy name and colorful appearance, pink cocaine is not what it seems and poses serious risks. This drug, also called “tusi,” has surfaced in nightclubs, social media platforms, and has even been linked to high-profile cases. This article explains what pink cocaine is, why it’s dangerous, and what parents, teens, and educators should know to stay safe.


What is Pink Cocaine?

Pink cocaine, or “tusi,” is a drug mixture that combines different types of substances. It’s typically sold as a bright pink powder, which is one reason why it has become so popular. People are drawn to its color and nickname, thinking it might be similar to regular cocaine. However, experts warn that it’s far from it.


What’s Actually in Pink Cocaine?

Unlike regular cocaine, which is a single substance, pink cocaine is a blend of several drugs. It often includes ketamine—a powerful anesthetic used in both human and veterinary medicine—along with other drugs like MDMA (commonly known as “molly”), methamphetamine, and sometimes even opioids. This unpredictable combination makes it highly risky to use because users often don’t know exactly what’s in it.

Joseph Palamar, a professor and drug researcher, describes pink cocaine as a “mystery powder.” Because of this unpredictability, someone using it could be exposing themselves to any number of dangerous chemicals, some of which may react with each other in unexpected and harmful ways.


Why is Pink Cocaine So Popular?

There are a few reasons why pink cocaine is spreading so quickly among young people. First, the bright color and powdery form make it look less intimidating, even playful. Nicknames like “tusi” add to its appeal, creating an image of it being “fun” or “trendy.” It’s also being advertised as similar to “molly,” a popular party drug that became well-known in the 2000s. Palamar says that, like molly, the nickname “tusi” adds a cool factor to the drug, which attracts young users who may not understand the risks.

The problem is that pink cocaine is rarely what it seems. Some people may think it’s safe or similar to traditional drugs they know, but the truth is, it’s a mystery. For teens who are experimenting, this can lead to dangerous situations.


The Hidden Dangers of Pink Cocaine

The main danger of pink cocaine is its unpredictability. Unlike regulated drugs, where doses and ingredients are known, pink cocaine varies from one batch to another. One dose might contain more stimulants like methamphetamine, while another might have higher levels of depressants like ketamine. This unpredictability can lead to several dangers:


  1. Unexpected Reactions    : Because of the different drugs mixed into pink cocaine, users might experience effects they weren’t expecting. For instance, they may feel energized and “up” due to stimulants, only to suddenly feel extremely drowsy from the ketamine.

  2. Risk of Overdose    : If a batch of pink cocaine contains opioids like fentanyl, the risk of overdose becomes even greater. Fentanyl is extremely powerful and can be fatal in tiny amounts. Without knowing what’s in the powder, users could be at risk of serious health issues, including death.

  3. Confusion and Hallucinations    : Mixing stimulants and depressants can create what experts call “erratic behavior.” For example, a user may start hallucinating, feeling confused, or even believe that what they’re seeing isn’t real. This can lead to risky actions, especially in a party environment where users are already more likely to take risks.

  4. Physical Side Effects    : Vomiting, respiratory depression (where breathing slows dangerously), and dissociation (feeling disconnected from one’s own body) are common side effects. Because users don’t know what they’re taking, they may misinterpret these symptoms as normal when they’re actually serious signs of danger.

Michelle Arnot, a pharmacologist, describes the experience as a kind of “speedball,” a dangerous mix of drugs that sends confusing signals to the brain, affecting the user’s ability to make safe choices. This confusion can be even more dangerous in a high-energy setting, like a party or concert.


What Can Parents and Teachers Do?

If you’re a parent, teacher, or friend of someone who might be exposed to pink cocaine, here are a few tips to help keep everyone safe:


  1. Open Conversations    : Teens are often open to honest conversations about health and safety. Talk about what’s out there, and don’t be afraid to be direct about the risks of drugs like pink cocaine. Explain that just because something looks harmless doesn’t mean it is.

  2. Know the Signs    : If someone has taken pink cocaine, they may act unusually confused, have trouble breathing, or look very tired and disoriented. Knowing these signs can help in recognizing a potential overdose situation. In any emergency, don’t hesitate to call for help.

  3. Promote Safe Choices    : Encourage the idea that if someone does decide to try something, they should test it first with drug-testing kits and only take it in a safe, controlled environment with people who can look out for them. Even though the best option is to avoid unknown substances, knowing how to stay safer can save lives.

  4. Be Prepared    : If you suspect that there could be opioids in the drugs circulating at parties, consider carrying a naloxone kit, which can reverse opioid overdoses and has saved countless lives. Many areas offer these kits for free.


Why is Pink Cocaine Legal?

The simple answer is that it’s not exactly legal, but because it’s a mixture of various drugs, it’s hard to regulate. Nicholas Boyce, a policy expert, explains that the unregulated nature of pink cocaine is part of a bigger problem with today’s drug market. He argues that the ongoing drug crisis often brings about new, dangerous substances as a result of supply crackdowns that address some drugs but don’t address the demand.

This means that whenever authorities try to shut down one type of drug, new drugs quickly emerge to take its place. This cycle makes it hard to control the kinds of drugs young people are exposed to. It’s important to understand that without knowing the exact ingredients, people are taking a gamble with pink cocaine.


What’s Next?

The final reports on cases involving pink cocaine, such as the tragic passing of pop singer Liam Payne, are still pending. The ongoing investigations have shown just how dangerous and unpredictable this drug is, especially for young people who might not realize what they’re getting into. By learning more about these risks, sharing knowledge, and encouraging safe decisions, parents, educators, and friends can help prevent potential tragedies.

In a world where new drugs can be advertised as “fun” or “cool,” the best protection is information and awareness. For teens, the appeal of colorful powders or catchy names can be tempting, but understanding the real risks behind these substances is essential. Always remember: just because something looks harmless doesn’t mean it is.