Pink cocaine: a drug on the rise
By Natalie Said – Sales Team Leader
A substance within a substance
Since 2011, we have not only provided industry leading drug and alcohol testing but ensured we have the facilities to test for the ever-changing trends in substance use. In recent months, pink cocaine has hit the headlines as a new designer drug coming to the UK after gaining popularity in party resorts abroad. But what is pink cocaine?
As with all illicit drugs, there is no guarantee as to the contents of a powder or tablet being used as they are not pharmaceutically produced or regulated. With this comes added dangers because even if a user believes they are using a single drug, they may be polydrug using.
Seizures of ‘pink cocaine’ have identified it to contain mixtures of cocaine, ecstasy, ketamine, amphetamines, fentanyl, LSD or 2-CB. As its popularity increases, this list could expand.
Why is pink cocaine dangerous
Pink cocaine, despite it’s name may not actually contain cocaine. The drug is pink in colour and therefore can be more visually appealing over other drugs. There is no guarantee to the contents of the drug being used, with this carrying many dangers.
Pink cocaine carries a significant risk of overdose, with symptoms that include:
If not treated promptly, these symptoms can progress to critical conditions such as seizures, heart failure, or respiratory collapse.
The dangers of pink cocaine include its highly addictive nature, and frequent use can quickly lead to physical and psychological dependence. Over time, chronic users may experience severe mental health problems, including persistent anxiety, depression, paranoia, and even episodes of psychosis.
From a physical health perspective, the stimulant effects place immense strain on the cardiovascular system, raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Due to its unpredictable makeup, pink cocaine use is considered extremely dangerous and poses major risks to mental and physical wellbeing.
Legality
One of the major challenges in regulating pink cocaine is the drug’s inconsistent composition. As each batch may contain different chemical mixtures, it complicates law enforcement efforts and medical treatment for users.
This lack of quality control during production leaves individuals vulnerable to unknowingly consuming dangerous or toxic substances, which increases the risk of overdoes and serious health reactions.
How a hair strand test can help
Whilst we cannot confirm the method or type of drug used, detecting multiple compounds with a hair drug test may provide critical information, not only to the court, but also to the users themselves, who are often unaware of the exact ingredients of the drugs they use.
The added dangers of polydrug use, especially combined with alcohol consumption, is enhanced medical reactions or even fatality. Therefore, when your donor declares using cocaine, are you sure they are only taking cocaine?
Your dedicated client manager
Understanding a ‘new’ substance and how best to test for it may seem daunting but your local Lextox client manager is ready and waiting to support. From enquiry to results delivery, they will provide a hassle-free and fully managed service so you can devote more time to your casework.
Contact your dedicated client manager today who can provide a hassle-free and fully managed service.
Click here to get in touch.
By Natalie Said
Sales Team Leader
Natalie has worked at with Lextox for 13 years, beginning her career as a client manager and moving up to sales team leader. She has extensive knowledge of all our drug, alcohol, and DNA testing services, having been with the business since the very beginning. Prior to joining Lextox, Natalie gained vast experience in operations and business development recruiting for accountancy firms before joining South Wales Chambers of Commerce
Published 21/10/2024. All information correct at time of publication.