The singer died last week after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Toxicology tests carried out on singer Liam Payne, who died last Wednesday, 16, after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, have highlighted the presence of “pink cocaine” in the body of the former One Direction band member . The information was presented by ABC News.
Also known as 2-CB, Pink Powder or “Tuci” in Brazil (Portuguese derivation of the English pronunciation Two-C), pink cocaine is a hallucinogenic synthetic drug, capable of causing distortions of reality, euphoria and a sense of depersonalization – that is, feeling that there is a disconnection with one’s body and thoughts.
Despite its name, the drug is not a derivative of white cocaine. The name was given to it for the euphoric, agitated and well-being effect that the two drugs cause in those who consume them – as well as being both sold and used in powder form. However, unlike the “traditional” one, the rose causes hallucinations.
The color comes from a type of dye added to make the product pink and its sale more attractive and impactful.
The drug is synthetic and is made from a mixture of ketamine or ketamine (an anaesthetic), MDMA (associated as a synonym with Ecstasy), caffeine and methamphetamine. According to ABC News, cocaine, benzodiazepines and crack can also be used to make this cocktail.
This composition makes pink cocaine more expensive due to high production costs. Therefore, it is known to be used even by people with high purchasing power. It is also dangerous, since the user does not always know exactly what they are using and what they are putting into their body.
Again due to its properties, the drug usually initially causes a feeling of agitation and excitement, which then evolves into hallucinations. This second effect makes consumption more risky because it prevents the user from clearly measuring the consequences of their actions, placing them in dangerous situations.
In a text published by the Federal Council of Pharmacy (CFF) in April last year, Professor José Roberto Santin, doctor of toxicology, explains that the stimulating effect and hallucinations caused by pink cocaine are due to the presence of methamphetamines and/or or LSD.
“The user is subjected to seeing and doing extreme things, without precise knowledge of the reality around him,” he states.
According to the professor, who is also coordinator of a toxicology working group of the CFF, the use of the drug in extreme doses can cause cardiac overload and, consequently, lead the person to a heart attack; as well as addiction, dependence and overdose in case of excessive consumption.
This is because, according to information presented by the Santa Mônica Hospital, including in a text published on its website, the effect of pink cocaine amphetamines on the brain is greatly exaggerated, causing a sharp increase in dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters associated with pleasure.
As a result, the organism itself regulates the increase in these chemicals, reducing the number of receptors for these neurotransmitters. Result: the next time a consumer uses the drug, the body will require even larger quantities in order to generate the same effect produced the first time.
“Furthermore, since pink powder is considered a hallucinogen, those who consume it may suffer from distortion of reality. Some possible symptoms are auditory hallucinations, paranoia or panic, which create danger for themselves and others,” warns the institution.
Although it is more common in other South American countries, such as Argentina and Colombia, this drug has also been seized in Brazil.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
