Public warned about dangers of ‘pink cocaine’

The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has warned the public, especially those who frequent bars, pubs and other nightlife venues, about the dangers of a synthetic drug known as 2C-B and commonly marketed as “pink cocaine”, even though it does not necessarily contain cocaine.

The drug stimulates the central nervous system and can cause hallucinations.

ONCB spokesperson Areepakdi Ngernbamrung said 2C-B was raised as a concern at a recent meeting of the International Symposium of Forensic Drug Testing Lab Directors.

It is a complex cocktail of synthetic drugs sold under the name “pink cocaine” and is available in powder, tablet and capsule forms, she said, adding that the drug is popular among people who frequent pubs and other entertainment venues.

Areepakdi said 2C-B stimulates the central nervous system and can cause hallucinations similar to those induced by LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) and Ecstasy (MDMA, or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), which may lead to risky behaviour that could endanger both users and those around them.

She warned that consuming excessive amounts of 2C-B or mixing it with other substances, such as ketamine or benzodiazepines, which are often found in “Happy Water”, significantly increases the risk of overdose.

Possible effects include abnormal heart rhythms, hypertension and elevated body temperature, which can lead to loss of consciousness and, in severe cases, cardiac arrest, she said.

2C-B is classified as a Category 1 narcotic in Thailand. Its production, importation, exportation, distribution and possession are illegal and punishable by imprisonment.