A recent study published in Addiction (2024) has shed light on a dangerous trend emerging within nightlife and party scenes in the United States — the rise of Tusi, also known as “pink cocaine” or “tusibí.” Once primarily seen in Latin America and parts of Europe, Tusi is now making its way into U.S. cities, with New York City’s electronic dance music (EDM) nightclub scene serving as a growing hotspot.

Tusi is not what its nickname suggests. It’s not cocaine, nor is it a regulated substance with a consistent chemical formula. In fact, it’s a concoction of drugs — commonly including ketamine, MDMA, synthetic cathinones, and other potent substances. The alarming part? Most users have no clear idea what they’re actually consuming. This unpredictability greatly increases the risk of overdose, psychological distress, and long-term health consequences.

What the Study Found

In a 2024 cross-sectional study of over 1,400 adults attending NYC EDM nightclubs:

• 2.7% reported using Tusi in the past year.
  
  
• Hispanic individuals had significantly higher odds of reported use.
  
  
• Users of Tusi were also more likely to have recently used MDMA, ketamine, or synthetic psychedelics like the 2C series.
  
  
• Saliva tests revealed many users were exposed to cocaine, methamphetamine, or other drugs — even when they hadn’t reported using them, indicating possible unintentional ingestion.

Why This Matters

The rise of synthetic, designer, and multi-drug compounds like Tusi reflects a deeper issue: increasing emotional risk-taking in response to stress, trauma, or psychological pain. Many individuals turn to drugs for escape, stimulation, or connection — often without fully realizing the toll it takes on their mental health and future stability.

How Dr. David Salvage Can Help

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use — whether from Tusi, party drugs, or other forms of self-medication — professional, compassionate treatment is essential.

Dr. David Salvage, MD, FAPM, offers individualized care that gets to the root of substance use disorders. With over 20 years of experience in psychiatry, psychotherapy, and addiction treatment, Dr. Salvage provides a comprehensive approach to healing — combining evidence-based therapies, psychiatric support, and a deep understanding of the emotional drivers behind addiction.

Our patients receive nonjudgmental, discreet, and personalized care that helps them build lasting strategies for emotional resilience, self-regulation, and recovery.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

Substance use is never just about the drug — it’s about the pain underneath. If you’re ready to address that pain and build a more stable, fulfilling future, Dr. David Salvage is here to help.

Contact Dr. Salvage today for a confidential consultation: Call or text (646) 373-1138 today, or get in touch with us through our online form.