"Pink cocaine": A new drug that is raising concerns among US authorities

Pink cocaine

"Pink cocaine": A new drug that is raising concerns among US authorities

 A drug marketed as "pink cocaine" is causing increasing concern among US health authorities, after appearing more frequently in criminal cases.

Why is it worrying?

Because this potent powder is part of a new wave of polysynthetic drugs, it typically consists of a dangerous mixture of substances such as ketamine and ecstasy, and is sometimes mixed with methamphetamine or fentanyl , making the risk of overdoses extremely high due to the unpredictability of its components or effects, according to Axios.

Over the past few months, authorities from Los Angeles to Miami have reported seizures or issued strong warnings related to "pink cocaine".

In 2025, New York authorities seized this drug along with dozens of weapons in a smuggling case linked to the "Trin de Aragua" gang.

Experts say that this drug is not smuggled as a finished product as much as it is copied locally, as the idea is enough for the promoters to re-manufacture it from materials available to them.

What do the experts say?

Experts at poison control centers confirm that users of this type sometimes believe they are taking a mild substance, while in fact they are consuming a mixture that may harm the heart, brain, and respiratory system .

The drug has also been linked to notable cases, including a preliminary toxicology report showing its presence in the body of a world-famous singer before his death in Argentina, and testimony in a recent federal trial about its use at private parties.

Authorities warn that " pink cocaine " is making its way into rural areas of the United States, with local counties, such as Tangipahoa in Louisiana, issuing public warnings after linking it to overdose deaths.