Chemistry
Adrenochrome is an o-quinone.

History
Adrenochrome's history is intimately tied to its identity as a metabolite of epinephrine. In Canada, it is rumored that during World War II, supplies of fresh adrenaline sometimes ran short. In emergencies, when some patients had to be given adrenaline from old stock -- adrenaline that had oxidized and turned slightly pink -- they experienced temporary hallucinations. This may have led to the legend of "pink adrenaline." This effect is substantiated today by product inserts in injectable epinephrine products which warn, "Do not use if it is pink, brown or contains precipitate. Epinephrine is sensitive to light and air, and is unstable in 5% dextrose." [Epinephrine is indicated in the emergency treatment of allergic reactions to insect stings or bites, foods, drugs and other allergens as well as idiopathic or exercise-induced anaphylaxis.] Epinephrine is also one of the oldest intraocular pressure-reducing agents (for glaucoma) and although the mechanism of action is obscure, it is believed alpha and beta-receptor stimulation promotes increased outflow. Ocular side effects limit epinephrine's long-term use, and it is rarely used today.

Slang
The Substance: Pink adrenaline

The effects of exogenous adrenochrome have not been thoroughly documented, it is reputed to cause disorientation and hallucinations.

Adrenochrome monosemicarbazone, a pharmaceutical derivative of adrenochrome, was described in Adam Gottlieb's 1973 book Legal Highs, as "Physical (sic) stimulating, feeling of well-being, slight reduction of thought processes."