“Pink cocaine,” commonly referred to as “tusi” or “tuci,” is a designer drug associated with significant health risks and altered perceptions. A recent partial autopsy revealed that Liam Payne, the former One Direction member, had multiple substances in his system when he fell from a third-floor balcony in Buenos Aires, including this particular drug.
Toxicology reports indicate that “pink cocaine” typically contains a combination of substances, primarily ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic known to make users feel detached from reality, as well as various psychedelics. Despite its name, it often lacks actual cocaine and may consist of synthetic drugs such as ecstasy, methamphetamine, and benzodiazepines. The drug earns its title from its vibrant pink hue, which is often achieved through food coloring, and sometimes includes a strawberry flavor, available in pill form or for inhalation.
Pink cocaine originated in Latin American nightlife settings, evolving into a popular party drug. Its recent association with Sean “Diddy” Combs surfaced in a lawsuit where former music producer Rodney Jones claimed that employees were required to carry a mix of illicit substances, including pink cocaine.
Authorities are cautioning about the dangers associated with this drug, which can lead to unpredictable behaviors and impaired decision-making. Public health experts emphasize that pink cocaine’s distinctive appearance makes it particularly appealing to younger individuals, raising concerns about its increasing prevalence among teens and young adults.
Officials stress that no community is immune to the reach of street drugs, especially in the era of social media, which has transformed local areas into accessible drug markets.