A brightly colored powder is circulating in nightlife scenes across the country — and it's far more dangerous than its appearance suggests. Known as "pink cocaine" or "tusi," this substance is not what most people think it is. Despite the name, it usually contains no cocaine at all. Instead, it's an unpredictable cocktail of drugs that can include fentanyl, ketamine, MDMA, and methamphetamine. Here's what the DEA wants you to know.
What Is Pink Cocaine?
Pink cocaine is a powdered mixture of substances that is dyed pink, may have a sweet smell, and typically produces mind-altering, hallucinogenic effects. The original compound in tusi was 2C-B, a psychedelic phenylethylamine. Once 2C-B became harder to obtain, drug organizations shifted to a cocktail of other substances, dyed it pink, and continued selling it under the same name.
Today, pink cocaine rarely contains 2C-B — and the actual substances included are unknown until a sample is tested in a laboratory. The bright pink color comes from nothing more than food dye or colored baking powder.
What's Actually in Pink Cocaine?
DEA laboratory testing has identified pink powders containing these dangerous combinations:
| Substance Combination Found | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| Ketamine + MDMA | High |
| Methamphetamine + Ketamine + MDMA | Extreme |
| Cocaine + Fentanyl | Potentially Fatal |
| Fentanyl + Xylazine | Potentially Fatal |
Source: DEA Intelligence Report — Pink Cocaine
How Widespread Is Pink Cocaine?
960
Pink powders seized by DEA since 2020
4
Of those actually contained 2C-B
180M
Fentanyl pills seized in the same period
While pink cocaine is not yet a commonly trafficked substance at large scale, it is increasingly encountered at the retail level in urban areas with active nightclub scenes — including Miami, New York, and Los Angeles.
Why Is Pink Cocaine So Dangerous?
The Fentanyl Factor
Some samples of pink cocaine have been found to contain fentanyl — one of the most potent and deadly synthetic opioids. Even a tiny amount of fentanyl can be lethal. Some samples also contained xylazine, an animal tranquilizer that complicates overdose reversal with naloxone (Narcan).
Warning Signs of Exposure to Unknown Substances
If someone has ingested an unknown substance like pink cocaine, watch for these emergency warning signs:
What to Do in an Emergency
- Call 911 immediately — do not wait to see if symptoms improve
- Do not leave the person alone
- If available and opioid exposure is suspected, administer naloxone (Narcan)
- Place the person on their side (recovery position) to prevent choking
- Be honest with emergency responders about what may have been taken
The Bigger Picture: Why Pink Cocaine Is Emerging Now
Dealers are marketing pink cocaine as a "new" drug, catering to polydrug user populations and leveraging the novelty factor. The DEA emphasizes that the drug landscape has fundamentally changed:
"Drug use is more dangerous than ever before with the advent of fentanyl and the deceptive tactics used by drug organizations to drive dependency, which can eventually lead to addiction."— DEA Intelligence Report
How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
For Yourself
- Never accept unknown substances in social settings
- Understand that any substance obtained outside a pharmacy can contain deadly adulterants
- A substance's appearance tells you nothing about what's inside
- Carry naloxone (Narcan) if you or others may be in high-risk environments
For Parents & Families
- Talk openly with young people about the reality of unknown substances
- Educate without judgment — shame drives secrecy
- Know the signs of substance exposure listed above
- Encourage professional help if you suspect substance use concerns
Frequently Asked Questions About Pink Cocaine
Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information presented is sourced from DEA intelligence reports and is intended to promote awareness and safety. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger from substance exposure, call 911.
References
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). "Pink Cocaine." DEA Intelligence Report. dea.gov
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