Pink Cocaine: What Parents Need to Know 2-24-26

February 24, 2026

Pink Cocaine: What Parents Need to Know

MOBILE, Ala. — You may have heard teens talk about “pink cocaine” or “tusi.”

It looks trendy: a bright pink powder, sometimes with a sweet smell. But parents need to know the truth.

Pink cocaine usually is not cocaine at all. It is a mystery mix of dangerous drugs — often things like ketamine, MDMA, methamphetamine, xylazine, or even fentanyl — dyed pink to look fun and harmless. There is no way to know what’s in it or how strong it is. One small line could be far more than a young person’s body can handle.

“The drug landscape has shifted,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County, “and with fentanyl in the supply and increasingly deceptive tactics by drug traffickers, substance use is now more dangerous than ever.”

Teens may see it at parties or on social media and think it is a “party drug” that makes you feel happy, energized, or more social. But it can also cause terrifying hallucinations, extreme anxiety, overheating, heart problems, seizures, or death — even the first time someone uses it.

As a parent, you are your child’s best protection. It may not be easy to have the conversation on any harm related topic.

Ask them what they’re seeing and hearing about pink drugs or party powders.

Listen without judgment so they will keep talking.

Make it clear: using any unknown powder is like playing roulette with their life.

If you think your child has taken pink cocaine, call 911 right away. You can also call Poison Control at 800-222-1222 for 24/7 expert advice. Another source of information is the Drug Education Council at 251-478-7855.

CredibleMind is a free digital platform that connects users with mental health and self-care resources to help you manage the ups and downs of life. Whether you’re looking for articles to read, assessments to take, videos to watch, or podcasts to listen to, CredibleMind has the tools to assist you with understanding yourself better and learning how to navigate life’s challenges. For additional information on ways to become a better parent, visit https://alabama.crediblemind.com/topics/parenting. For resources on lowering risks, visit https://alabama.crediblemind.com/topics/harm-reduction.

Talk early. Talk often. A short conversation today could save a life.