2C Drugs

By Edmund Murphy

Last updated: 28 March 2024 & medically reviewed by Dr. Celeste Small

What are 2C drugs?

2C drugs are a group of synthetic psychedelic drugs first synthesized in the 1970s as a therapy aid. 2C drugs come in multiple forms including 2C-E, 2C-I, 2CT-7, and 2CB which is the most commonly used version available today. 

2C-B (2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine), commonly known as pink cocaine, is a psychedelic phenylethylamine derivative, structurally similar to mescaline. It is a serotonin receptor partial agonist that is widely used in the rave and club scene owing to its combination as both a stimulant and hallucinogen.^[1] 

Many users have likened 2C-B as having similar effects to both MDMA and LSD, creating a euphoric high similar to stimulants while also causing mild hallucinations similar to ketamine or mescaline. The way 2C-B interacts with the brain and its ability to mimic serotonin reactions have also led to the drug being likened to antidepressants. 

The drug is most commonly snorted in its powder form and is also taken orally via a pill.

Other names for 2C drugs

What do 2C drugs look, smell, and taste like?

Appearance

2C drugs often come in the form of small pills or powder. The pill and powder forms of the drug are usually white, though vibrant pink versions of both, especially for 2CB, have become popular. 

A liquid version of 2C-I that is applied to the tongue via a pipet has also been reported, though far less common. 

Taste/smell

When snorted, 2C drugs are reported to have a chemical smell and taste similar to gasoline or pure cocaine (sometimes referred to as fish scale cocaine). Some users have reported a burning sensation when snorting the drug and those who have taken 2C pills have reported little to no taste/smell.

How are 2C drugs taken?

2C drugs are taken in three primary ways; snorting in powder form, taken as a pill, or rolled alongside tobacco and or marijuana and smoked. How the drug is taken affects how quickly the drug enters the system and can mean effects are felt faster or slower and to different degrees of intensity.

How do 2C drugs make you feel?

2C drugs are fairly unique as they exist primarily as a hallucinogen but also produce effects similar to stimulants like cocaine or MDMA. 

The hallucinogenic properties of 2C drugs can cause a distorted sense of reality as well as dissociation and hallucinations, similar to ketamine.

The stimulant properties can cause alertness, increased sociability, and the ability to stay awake longer. 

Common effects of 2C drugs include:

• Alertness

• Heightened awareness of colors and sound

• Increased sexual arousal

• Euphoria

• Increased well-being

• Hallucinations (if taken in large doses)

• Increased heart rate

• Raised blood pressure

2CB legal status

2C drugs became a popular alternative for MDMA users when the drug was made illegal in 1984. In the US today, 2C-B and other variants are classed as Schedule I substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) under the Controlled Substances Act. This means the drug has no medical benefit and has a high potential for abuse.

How much does 2C-B cost?

2C-B and other variants have risen in popularity over the past 20 years and have seen a sharp incline in illegal production and distribution alongside other hallucinogens. 

This has also led to an increase in street price, with many users seeking the drug out via the dark web. 

According to DEA research, a single pill of 2C-B has a street price of between $10 and $30 and a gram of powder can be purchased online for between $100 and $300.

Can I get addicted to 2CB?

Like other forms of hallucinogens, 2C drugs are not widely considered to be addictive as they do not cause physical or psychological dependence. However, as 2C is also a central nervous system stimulant it does interact with neurotransmitters associated with addiction. 

Reported cases of 2C addiction are extremely rare and tend to be part of a larger pattern of substance abuse that involves addictive behaviors towards more common substances of abuse. If you or someone you know is struggling with 2C dependence or any substance use disorder, then it is important to seek treatment via a dedicated rehab specialist. Visit our rehab directory today to find an addiction treatment center near you.

How long do 2C drugs stay in your system?

The length of time 2C drugs remain in a person's system can vary depending on age, gender, body mass, and drug abuse history. The onset of a 10-25mg dose (if snorted) will be near instantaneous and the psychedelic action can last for up to 12 hours.

Research on how long 2C metabolites are detectable in drug toxicology screenings is scant, though it may be detected in urine using liquid chromatographic and mass spectrographic techniques.^[6]

Read here to learn more about how long other drugs stay in your system.

2C-B harm reduction advice

The CNS stimulant and psychedelic effects cause a variety of physical and psychological reactions which may cause harm to some users. The easiest way to avoid risk factors is to not take the drug, though if you are planning on taking the substance there are some steps to consider in order to avoid negative reactions.

• If using 2C-B powder, be careful how much you take in one dose. 15-30mg is enough to produce stimulant and psychedelic effects that can last for up to 10 hours
• Do not attempt to drive or attempt anything that involves machinery or tools
• If you're currently not in the right mindset or have been experiencing a negative period of mental health then avoid taking drugs altogether
• Make sure you are in a comfortable setting with people you know and trust. Consider having a 'trip sitter' if you a worried about having a bad trip
• If you start to have a negative experience or trip, then try to remember that it will pass eventually
• Do not mix 2C-B with other drugs and alcohol
• Drink plenty of water. The stimulant effects of 2C-B are diuretic and will dehydrate you