Dosa: The Party Drug and Its Hidden Dangers

The recently publicized arrest of singer Osher Cohen has brought attention to a substance known as “dosa.” Yet, within the Israeli nightlife of 2026, dosa isn’t exactly a new phenomenon; it’s actually become the prominent drug of choice for many.

This pink, fragrant powder is frequently touted as a “pink version of cocaine,” but it masks a more serious issue related to the current drug landscape: unpredictability.

There was a time when people confused it with the psychedelic 2CB, commonly calling it “tusi.” However, the link is mostly coincidental. While 2CB is a specific synthetic psychedelic, dosa is a fluctuating blend of various chemicals, which is what makes it particularly risky.

One certainty about dosa is its signature pink hue. The real concern lies in the uncertain “recipe” behind it. Illicit labs mix various leftover substances to increase their profit margins, often resulting in combinations of stimulants, psychedelics, and dissociatives like ketamine.

Recent lab analyses discovered some of the chemicals that may be found in dosis sold on the streets:

Ketamine: Popular in party scenes, often found in forms other than pure ketamine. Initially developed as an anesthetic, it offers both psychedelic effects and central nervous system depression.

MDMA: This stimulant and empathogen — somewhat related to methamphetamines — mainly influences the serotonin system, producing feelings of empathy and joy.

Caffeine and other stimulants: The inclusion of stimulants like caffeine provides a boost of energy and alertness, being inexpensive and widely available.

Methamphetamines: These cheap substances have a high potential for addiction, increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine. In Israel, they’ve seen significant use as an affordable alternative to other drugs, leading to prolonged alertness for days.

Cathinone derivatives: Synthetic offshoots of khat, often referred to as MMC, these have gained popularity among various demographic groups. Nicknamed “Doctor,” they frequently appear in dosa cocktails but are sold separately as well.

Coloring and flavoring agents: The unique look of dosa often results from artificial dyes.

Simultaneously using multiple stimulants can lead to major cardiac stress, spikes in blood pressure, and activating the body’s “fight or flight” response. While some users might feel euphoric, sharp focus, or a sense of invincibility, others could experience heightened anxiety, panic attacks, a sense of suffocation, or rapid heartbeat.

Critically, older individuals (those 40 and above) or those with undisclosed genetic predispositions may face substantial risks, including life-threatening heart issues or strokes due to blood vessel damage.

Amid this challenging backdrop, a new company called Party Keepers was launched to shift the narrative. Their premise is straightforward: the safest approach is to forgo drug use entirely. However, for those who do choose to partake, safety measures are essential.

They’re now offering innovative, user-friendly testing kits that can verify the contents of a powder within minutes — detecting ten different substances. These tests are backed by the toxicology lab at Tel Hashomer. The need for such resources arose from experiences where substances were misrepresented, alongside efforts to build a “health intelligence” system to monitor changing substances in circulation.

Why is this particularly crucial with dosa? Given that it’s a mixture, the likelihood of encountering unknown and potentially hazardous substances is considerably elevated. While testing kits aren’t a green light for drug use, they offer a lifeline, allowing users to transition from guesswork to informed choices based on factual data instead of dealers’ promises. They aren’t foolproof, but they significantly enhance understanding of the pink powder.

The harm reduction philosophy isn’t about promoting drug use but aims to avert fatalities and severe injuries. Here are some vital guidelines every partygoer should remember:

Testing first: Before handling any substance, research how it affected others who used the same batch, and employ a testing kit to confirm its contents. This step is essential before consumption — there’s no going back afterward.

Start with half a dose: Given its cocktail nature, start with a reduced dose — no more than half the typical amount. Allow at least an hour to assess how this specific blend affects you.

Be wary with alcohol: Mixing dosa, potentially containing substances like ketamine, with alcohol can be perilous, leading to respiratory issues or unconsciousness. If testing indicates the presence of depressants, avoid mixing. It’s also worth noting that stimulant-heavy dosis might mask alcohol’s effects, resulting in dangerous overconsumption.

Have a friend nearby: Ensure that those around you are aware of what you’ve taken and can seek help if necessary. Shared responsibility and vigilance can sometimes offer a clearer view of your condition.

Dosa represents the deceptive allure of nightlife — a marketing ploy designed to sell low-quality substances at inflated prices. Ideally, abstaining altogether is the best option. But if you choose otherwise, don’t do so blindly. With the right tools and thorough testing, it’s possible to prevent future parties from turning into emergencies — or worse.

• Dr. Roy Zucker specializes in internal medicine, infectious diseases, and LGBTQ medicine. Recently, he has spearheaded harm reduction initiatives in Israel and founded Party Keepers, aimed at developing tools to mitigate risks tied to substance use.