Sex & Drugs
13 Mar 26

HSE issues drug warning ahead of St Patrick's Day weekend

"If it’s pink, stop and think," said the HSE.

The HSE has issued a drug warning ahead of St Patrick's Day weekend about a surge in high-risk substances circulating in Ireland, including new 'pink powder' and 'pink cocaine'.

The HSE has warned about 'pink cocaine' and batches of unidentified pink powder which can vary in contents, potency, and risks. The organisation reported that one powder was analysed and found to contain six substances, with other samples containing a drug never identified before in Ireland (2-FMA).

"If it’s pink, stop and think," read the statement from the HSE.

According to the HSE, drugs like powders and crystals highlight risks for those who use them in nightlife settings. Adding them into drinks can also greatly increase the risks, as they don't fully dissolve, increasing the amount of MDMA.

"Small amounts can contain more MDMA than people realise," said the HSE.

The health institution also warned about high strength MDMA pills, containing dangerously high amounts of MDMA of over 300mg (three times the average adult dose).

"start low, go slow," they added.

Dr David Weir, HSE Consultant Psychiatrist specialising in addiction said:

"Our core message is that it is safer not to use drugs at all as there will always be risks. However, our analysis shows that there is currently extra risk for those who use drugs in nightlife."

In response to these latest drugs trends, the HSE has engaged with nightlife stakeholders ahead of the St Patrick's Day weekend to help reduce drug consumption harms.

"Harm reduction is central to my work both as a DJ and as a youth worker," said local DJ Shauna Dee, who's been collaborating with the HSE.

"Across the nightlife community we all share the same priority, keeping people safe. I’m working with the HSE to share harm reduction advice: start low and go slow, be aware of the new risks and know the signs of a drug emergency. Mind your community, look out for yourself and care for others if something doesn’t seem right,” she added.

Find more information here.