Bottom Line Up Front: 2C-B, commonly sold as “pink cocaine” or “tusi,” is a dangerous designer drug that rarely contains actual 2C-B or cocaine. Most samples are unpredictable mixtures of ketamine, MDMA, methamphetamine, and fentanyl—creating severe overdose risks. The unknown composition makes every use potentially fatal, particularly with fentanyl contamination. Professional medical treatment is essential due to the complexity of polysubstance withdrawal and high relapse risk.
What is 2C-B?
2C-B (4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine) is a synthetic psychedelic drug that belongs to the phenethylamine family, originally synthesized in 1974 by chemist Alexander Shulgin. The substance produces both hallucinogenic and stimulant effects, making it particularly dangerous and unpredictable. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), 2C-B is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, indicating it has no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.
While 2C-B was briefly marketed in the 1980s as a legal alternative to MDMA under names like “Nexus” and “Bromo,” it was scheduled in 1995 following reports of abuse and adverse effects.
Key Characteristics of 2C-B:
- Classification: Schedule I controlled substance
- Chemical family: Phenethylamine derivative
- Effects: Combined hallucinogenic and stimulant properties
- Street names: Nexus, Bromo, Venus, Erox, 2’s
- Appearance: White powder or pressed tablets
What is Pink Cocaine (Tusi)?
The drug’s street name “pink cocaine” or “tusi” (derived from the Spanish pronunciation of “2C”) is dangerously misleading. Most samples of pink cocaine contain little to no actual cocaine or authentic 2C-B. Laboratory analysis conducted by harm reduction organizations reveals that street samples typically consist of a dangerous mixture of substances.
Common ingredients in “pink cocaine”:
- Ketamine (dissociative anesthetic)
- MDMA (ecstasy)
- Methamphetamine or other stimulants
- Opioids, including fentanyl
- Cocaine (in smaller amounts)
- Caffeine and other additives
- Pink or red food coloring for branding
This deceptive marketing creates a false sense of security. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) warns that such unpredictability significantly increases overdose risk and other severe health complications. Users believe they’re consuming a specific substance with predictable effects, when in reality they’re ingesting an unknown combination of potentially lethal drugs.
What Does 2C-B Look Like?
Authentic 2C-B typically appears as:
- White or off-white powder
- Pressed tablets in various colors (often with logos)
- Capsules containing powder
- Dosage range: 5-25mg (active dose)
“Pink cocaine” or “tusi” is identifiable by:
- Distinctive pink or magenta color from food dye
- Powder form resembling cocaine
- Variable consistency (sometimes chunky or crystalline)
- No standardized appearance due to inconsistent manufacturing
The pink color serves purely as a marketing gimmick to create brand recognition, with no relationship to the actual ingredients or potency.
What Does 2C-B Feel Like?
2C-B produces dose-dependent effects that vary dramatically based on amount consumed. At lower doses (5-15mg), users typically report:
- Enhanced sensory perception
- Mild visual distortions
- Increased emotional awareness
- Physical stimulation
- Heightened tactile sensations
At higher doses (15-25mg+), effects intensify significantly:
- Strong visual hallucinations
- Altered perception of time and space
- Intense euphoria or anxiety
- Profound sensory enhancement
- Confusion and disorientation
Common subjective effects include:
- “Flowing” or “breathing” visual patterns
- Enhanced colors and textures
- Body high and tingling sensations
- Emotional intensity
- Difficulty with logical thinking
The unpredictable nature of street formulations sold as “pink cocaine” means effects can range from mild euphoria to life-threatening medical emergencies, with vastly different experiences between doses.
How Long Does 2C-B Last?
The duration of 2C-B effects depends on dosage, individual metabolism, and method of consumption:
Typical timeline for oral ingestion:
- Onset: 30-90 minutes
- Peak effects: 2-3 hours
- Total duration: 4-8 hours
- After effects: Up to 2-4 hours
Factors affecting duration:
- Individual metabolism and body weight
- Dosage amount
- Food intake (empty vs. full stomach)
- Tolerance level
- Purity and composition
Pink cocaine mixtures produce unpredictable duration due to the presence of multiple substances with different half-lives. Stimulant effects may wear off while sedative effects persist, or vice versa.
What Are the Effects of 2C-B and Pink Cocaine?
The effects of 2C-B and pink cocaine mixtures vary dramatically based on the actual substances present, dosage, individual physiology, and environmental factors.
Short-Term Physical Effects
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Elevated body temperature and sweating
- Dilated pupils
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle tension or tremors
- Increased energy and alertness
- Respiratory changes
- Headaches and dizziness
- Jaw clenching
Short-Term Psychological Effects
- Visual and auditory hallucinations
- Altered perception of time and space
- Enhanced sensory experiences
- Euphoria or intense emotions
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Confusion and disorientation
- Impaired judgment and decision-making
- Enhanced empathy or emotional connection
Negative Effects and Risks
- “Bad trips”: Frightening hallucinations and panic
- Anxiety attacks: Overwhelming fear and paranoia
- Nausea and vomiting: Severe gastrointestinal distress
- Hyperthermia: Dangerous body temperature elevation
- Cardiovascular stress: Heart palpitations and chest pain
What Are the Long-Term Health Risks?
Repeated use of 2C-B, pink cocaine, or similar designer drugs carries serious long-term consequences. According to research published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), chronic use can result in:
Neurological Damage
- Persistent changes in brain chemistry
- Memory impairment and cognitive decline
- Increased risk of psychosis
- Development of hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD)
- Mood disorders including depression and anxiety
Physical Health Complications
- Cardiovascular problems including heart disease
- Liver and kidney damage
- Weakened immune system
- Respiratory issues
- Chronic sleep disturbances
- Serotonin syndrome risk
Psychological Consequences
- Development or worsening of mental health conditions
- Addiction and substance dependence
- Social isolation and relationship breakdown
- Financial and legal problems
- Increased risk of self-harm or suicidal ideation
The combination of multiple substances in pink cocaine formulations amplifies these risks, creating a cascade of health problems that often require comprehensive medical intervention.
Why is Pink Cocaine So Dangerous?
Unpredictable Composition
The most dangerous aspect of pink cocaine is its complete lack of standardization. Each batch—and potentially each dose—contains different substances in varying concentrations. This unpredictability means:
- Users cannot gauge appropriate dosing
- Cross-reactions between unknown substances are common
- Previous “safe” experiences provide no protection for future use
- Emergency responders struggle to provide appropriate medical care
Fentanyl Contamination
The opioid crisis has made fentanyl contamination a critical concern across all illicit drug markets. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl is approximately 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. Even microscopic amounts can cause fatal overdose.
Pink cocaine frequently contains fentanyl, often without the user’s knowledge. This is particularly dangerous because:
- Users seeking stimulant/psychedelic effects lack opioid tolerance
- Stimulant effects may mask respiratory depression
- Cross-contamination occurs during manufacturing
- No visual way to detect fentanyl presence
Polydrug Toxicity
When multiple substances are combined, their effects can interact in unpredictable ways:
- Stimulants may mask depressant effects, leading to overconsumption
- Depressants may cause delayed overdose as stimulants wear off
- Serotonin syndrome risk from multiple serotonergic drugs
- Cardiovascular stress from competing drug actions
These interactions place enormous stress on the cardiovascular system, brain, liver, and kidneys, increasing the risk of organ failure, stroke, seizures, and death.
How Addictive is 2C-B and Pink Cocaine?
While 2C-B itself is not considered highly physically addictive, psychological dependence can develop with regular use. However, pink cocaine mixtures present significant addiction risks due to their unpredictable composition.
Addiction Risk Factors
For authentic 2C-B:
- Moderate psychological dependence potential
- Rapid tolerance development
- Low physical dependence compared to opioids
- Risk of compulsive redosing
For pink cocaine mixtures:
- High addiction potential due to stimulant/opioid content
- Physical dependence from regular use
- Severe withdrawal symptoms possible
- Cross-addiction to multiple substance classes
Many individuals using pink cocaine develop polysubstance addiction patterns, requiring specialized treatment approaches.
What Are the Signs of Addiction?
Family members and friends should watch for these warning signs:
Behavioral Changes
- Secretive behavior and lying about activities
- Withdrawal from family and previously enjoyed activities
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Financial problems or stealing
- Changes in friend groups
- Risky behaviors and impaired judgment
- Obsessive drug-seeking behavior
Physical Signs
- Dramatic weight loss or changes in appetite
- Deteriorating physical appearance and hygiene
- Frequent nosebleeds (if snorting)
- Sleep disturbances or unusual sleep patterns
- Unexplained injuries or accidents
- Dilated pupils and sensitivity to light
- Tremors or muscle twitches
Psychological Symptoms
- Mood swings and irritability
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Depression when not using
- Memory problems and confusion
- Decreased motivation and apathy
- Hallucinations or distorted perception
- Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
Recognizing these signs early and seeking professional help can prevent the progression to more severe addiction and reduce the risk of fatal overdose.
What is 2C-B Withdrawal Like?
Withdrawal from authentic 2C-B is typically mild compared to other substances, primarily involving psychological symptoms. However, pink cocaine withdrawal can be severe and prolonged due to the multiple substances involved.
2C-B Withdrawal Symptoms
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Depression and mood swings
- Fatigue and low energy
- Sleep disturbances
- Difficulty concentrating
- Cravings for the substance
Pink Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline
Acute Phase (1-7 days):
- Severe physical symptoms
- Muscle pain and body aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia and nightmares
- Intense anxiety and agitation
- Cravings
Sub-Acute Phase (1-3 weeks):
- Persistent fatigue
- Mood swings and irritability
- Poor concentration
- Continued sleep problems
- Depression
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS):
- Emotional instability
- Brain fog and cognitive issues
- Periodic cravings
- Can persist for weeks or months
The presence of opioids, stimulants, and other substances in pink cocaine creates complex withdrawal patterns that require medical management.
How to Quit 2C-B and Pink Cocaine
Important: Due to the unpredictable composition of pink cocaine and potential for severe withdrawal, medical supervision is strongly recommended when discontinuing use.
Professional Treatment Options
Medical Detoxification: Our Path to Detox provides safe, medically supervised withdrawal management in a comfortable, private setting. Our on-site medical team monitors your health around the clock, administering medications to minimize discomfort and prevent complications.
Residential Treatment: Following detox, our residential treatment program provides immersive care in a luxurious Beverly Hills setting. This structured environment removes you from triggers and negative influences while providing intensive therapeutic support.
Evidence-Based Therapies: We utilize proven treatment approaches including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to identify and change harmful thought patterns
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy to develop emotional regulation skills
- Group Therapy to build peer support and accountability
Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Many individuals struggling with designer drug use also face co-occurring mental health conditions. Our Dual Diagnosis Treatment addresses both addiction and mental health simultaneously, providing integrated care for comprehensive healing.
Holistic Healing: Beyond traditional therapy, we incorporate holistic approaches including:
- Sound bath therapy
- Guided breathwork sessions
- Weekly hypnotherapy
- Yoga and wellness programs
- Fitness training and nutrition support
Family Support: Addiction affects entire families, not just individuals. Our Family Therapy programs help repair relationships, establish healthy boundaries, and educate loved ones about supporting long-term recovery.
Aftercare Planning: Recovery doesn’t end when treatment does. Our comprehensive Aftercare Planning ensures you have ongoing support, resources, and strategies to maintain sobriety after leaving our facility.
Why Professional Treatment is Essential
Attempting to quit designer drugs without professional support is not only difficult but potentially dangerous. The unpredictable composition of substances like pink cocaine creates unique challenges:
Risks of Unsupervised Detoxification
- Severe anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Intense cravings leading to relapse
- Physical complications (tremors, sweating, rapid heart rate)
- Seizures (particularly with stimulant withdrawal)
- Psychological distress including paranoia and hallucinations
- Medical emergencies requiring immediate intervention
Benefits of Professional Treatment
Medical detoxification provides:
- 24/7 health monitoring by licensed medical professionals
- Medication management to ease withdrawal symptoms
- Immediate intervention if complications arise
- Safe, comfortable environment focused on healing
- Nutritional support and wellness care
- Foundation for long-term recovery success
Polysubstance Use Considerations
The unpredictable mixture of drugs in pink cocaine itself often creates or reinforces polysubstance addiction patterns requiring specialized treatment.
Treatment must address:
- Multiple withdrawal syndromes occurring simultaneously
- Cross-tolerance and sensitization effects
- Different craving patterns and triggers for various substances
- Complex psychological factors underlying polysubstance use
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
Our treatment team has extensive experience with polysubstance addiction, creating individualized plans that address your unique pattern of use and specific recovery needs.
Will 2C-B Show Up on a Drug Test?
2C-B and related designer drugs are not typically detected on standard drug tests, but specialized testing can identify them.
Standard drug testing:
- 5-panel tests: Do not detect 2C-B
- 10-panel tests: Do not detect 2C-B
- 12-panel tests: Do not detect 2C-B
Specialized testing:
- Advanced toxicology screens can detect phenethylamines
- Hair follicle tests may identify use for months
- Specialized designer drug panels are available
- Some employers or treatment facilities may specifically test
Detection windows (estimated):
- Urine: 1-4 days
- Blood: 24-48 hours
- Hair: Up to 90 days
- Saliva: 1-2 days
Pink cocaine’s variable composition means multiple substances may be detected on standard panels if they contain cocaine, methamphetamine, opioids, or other scheduled drugs.
What States Have Banned 2C-B?
2C-B is a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, making it illegal throughout the United States. However, some states have additional specific legislation:
Federal Status:
- Schedule I controlled substance since 1995
- Illegal to manufacture, possess, or distribute
- No accepted medical use
- High potential for abuse
State-Specific Considerations:
- All 50 states recognize federal scheduling
- Some states have additional analog laws
- Penalties vary significantly by state
- Intent to distribute carries severe penalties
Legal Consequences:
- Possession: Misdemeanor to felony charges
- Distribution: Felony charges with mandatory minimums
- Manufacturing: Severe federal charges
- International trafficking: Federal prosecution
The Evidence for Professional Treatment
Research consistently demonstrates that professional addiction treatment significantly improves outcomes compared to attempting recovery alone. According to SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health, individuals who complete comprehensive treatment programs have substantially higher rates of sustained sobriety and improved quality of life.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse emphasizes that effective treatment must:
- Be readily available when individuals are ready to seek help
- Address multiple needs, not just substance use
- Remain in treatment for an adequate period (typically 90 days or longer)
- Include behavioral therapies and, when appropriate, medications
- Be continuously evaluated and modified as needed
- Address co-occurring mental health conditions
- Provide medical detoxification when necessary
- Include comprehensive aftercare planning
Refine Recovery’s programs incorporate all these evidence-based elements, providing comprehensive care that addresses addiction from every angle.
The Luxury Difference in Addiction Recovery
At Refine Recovery, we believe healing happens best in an environment that nurtures both body and mind. Our luxury rehab near Beverly Hills offers a private, resort-style setting where every detail supports your well-being and recovery journey.
Why Environment Matters
Recovery requires intensive personal work that demands physical comfort, emotional safety, and freedom from daily stresses. Our luxury accommodations provide:
Luxury Accommodations:
- Private rooms with en suite bathrooms for personal space and dignity
- In-room televisions and modern amenities
- Comfortable, modern living spaces designed for healing
- On-site laundry services
Culinary Excellence:
- Gourmet meals prepared by on-site chefs to nourish your body
- Nutritionally balanced menus supporting recovery
- Accommodation for dietary restrictions and preferences
Wellness & Fitness:
- State-of-the-art fitness center
- Certified fitness trainer
- Outdoor pools and spas
- Basketball courts
- Yoga and holistic wellness programs
- Experiential activities for mind and body
Comprehensive Clinical & Medical Support:
- On-site medical team for immediate care
- Licensed Masters-Level clinicians
- Weekly individual psychotherapy sessions
- Evidence-based group therapy
- Psychiatric treatment and medication management
- Dedicated case management
Holistic Healing Approaches:
- Sound bath therapy
- Guided breathwork sessions
- Weekly hypnotherapy sessions
Recreation & Entertainment:
- Entertainment rooms with engaging activities
- Structured recreational programming
This elevated experience isn’t about indulgence—it’s about creating optimal conditions for transformation. When your basic needs are met with excellence, you can focus entirely on the inner work of recovery.
When to Seek Help
If you or someone you love is struggling with 2C-B, pink cocaine, or any designer drug use, professional help is available. The unpredictable and dangerous nature of these substances makes immediate intervention crucial.
Warning signs requiring immediate help:
- Inability to stop using despite wanting to
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using
- Neglecting responsibilities due to drug use
- Continued use despite negative consequences
- Financial or legal problems from drug use
- Relationship damage from substance use
- Risky behaviors while intoxicated
- Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
Don’t wait for a crisis. Early intervention significantly improves treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of fatal overdose.
Hope and Healing Are Possible
Designer drug addiction may feel overwhelming, but recovery is absolutely possible with proper support. Thousands of individuals have overcome addiction to substances like pink cocaine and rebuilt meaningful, purposeful lives.
At Refine Recovery, we’ve witnessed remarkable transformations as individuals progress from active addiction to thriving in recovery. Our alumni community demonstrates that with comprehensive treatment, ongoing support, and personal commitment, lasting sobriety isn’t just a hope—it’s an achievable reality.
The danger and unpredictability of 2C-B and pink cocaine demand immediate action. Every use carries the risk of fatal overdose, particularly with unknown fentanyl contamination.
Get Help for 2C-B and Pink Cocaine Addiction Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with 2C-B, pink cocaine, or any substance use disorder, help is available. At Refine Recovery, we understand the unique challenges of designer drug addiction and offer comprehensive, evidence-based treatment programs designed to support lasting recovery.
Our Specialized Treatment Program Includes:
- Medically supervised detox and withdrawal management
- Individual and group therapy sessions
- Medication-assisted treatment when appropriate
- Holistic healing approaches
- Family support and education
- Aftercare planning and relapse prevention
- Luxury accommodations in Beverly Hills
- 24/7 medical and clinical support
Don’t face this challenge alone. Our compassionate team of addiction specialists is here to help you reclaim your life from designer drug dependence.
Call us today at (866) 890-9573 to speak with an admissions counselor and learn more about our treatment options.
Recovery starts with a single decision. Make that decision now—your life depends on it.
For more information, visit our Admissions page or explore our comprehensive treatment programs.
References and Additional Resources
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Information on controlled substances and designer drugs: www.dea.gov
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – Research and resources on substance use disorders: www.drugabuse.gov
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Treatment locator and support resources: www.samhsa.gov
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Overdose prevention and public health information: www.cdc.gov
This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing a substance use emergency, call 911 immediately.
