Bangkok: The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) warns against "pink cocaine," a new synthetic drug spreading among partygoers. It's said to be "addictive and potentially fatal."
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Areephak Ngernbumroong, Deputy Secretary-General of the ONCB and its spokesperson, revealed that the ONCB is concerned about the spread of a new type of synthetic drug, particularly 2C-B or 2C-bromine, which is gaining attention among partygoers and some drug users. Although known as "pink cocaine," it is not cocaine but a synthetic psychoactive drug with severe health consequences. 2C-B is similar to LSD and ecstasy, causing users to experience euphoria, abnormal alertness, hallucinations, distorted perception, loss of self-control, and potentially leading to risky behaviors or harm to themselves and others. Prolonged use can affect the brain, causing irritability and chronic hallucinations, and in excessive amounts, it can be fatal.
Of particular concern is the pattern of its spread. Citing information from international conferences, 2C-B, or pink cocaine, is often found as a "complex mixture" smuggled in powder, tablet, or capsule form and is likely to be mixed with other psychoactive substances such as ketamine, cocaine, or benzodiazepines. 2C-B is used to make Happy Water, increasing the risk of overdose. High doses of 2C-B, or its use in combination with other drugs, can cause arrhythmias, high blood pressure, elevated body temperature, seizures, unconsciousness, and potentially sudden cardiac arrest. If mixed with painkillers like tramadol, it can cause respiratory depression, which can lead to immediate death.
2C-B is classified as a Category 1 narcotic under Thai law. Those who produce, import, export, distribute, or possess it without permission are guilty and subject to strict legal penalties. The public, especially youth, are urged to be aware of the dangers of this new form of synthetic drug. Do not be misled by advertisements or solicitations claiming it is fun, safe, or disguised as harmless substances like "pink cocaine," as it can lead to health problems, loss of property, future prospects, and even death. If you have any information about drug trafficking, please report it to the Narcotics Suppression Bureau hotline at 1386, available 24 hours a day, to help prevent and solve the drug problem sustainably.
The spokesperson for the ONCB also stated that synthetic drugs may appear modern and easily accessible, but all types are toxic and have harmful effects on health, society, and national security. Not starting, not trying, and not becoming a victim of drug trafficking and a new user is the best way to protect oneself.