A significant increase in the use of amphetamine and methamphetamine was recorded in cities in Cyprus in 2025, according to a study published Tuesday by the SCORE network in collaboration with the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA).
The pan-European study focused on the analysis of urban wastewater to assess the consumption of addictive substances in 25 countries (115 cities), including Cyprus.
Presenting the results, the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (NAAC) and the University of Cyprus (UCY) noted that Cyprus continues to show lower levels of psychoactive substance use compared to the European average. However, wastewater data indicate a clear shift in usage patterns, with increasing trends in specific substances and strong local variations, particularly in urban and tourist centers.
Specifically, Limassol recorded a 260% increase in amphetamine use while Ayia Napa saw a 258%. According to the study, the highest levels of amphetamine are mainly found in cities in northern and central Europe. In Cyprus, levels remain lower, but the clear upward trends are a cause for concern, NAAC and UCY noted.
At the same time, major local increases in methamphetamine use were recorded in Ayia Napa (287%) and Larnaca (115%), while in other areas such as Limassol, a decrease was observed. Methamphetamine use in Europe generally remains limited and concentrated mainly in certain central European countries, although it is also detected in others, including Cyprus.
Cocaine use up in Larnaca, down in Limassol
Cocaine use increased in Larnaca (93%) but decreased in Limassol (-66%). According to the study, levels remain relatively lower compared to other European countries. Cocaine use appears more pronounced in cities in western and southern Europe, particularly in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Spain. Overall, an upward trend has been observed in recent years.
MDMA use low compared to Europe
During the period 2024-2025, an overall decrease in MDMA use was recorded in Europe, as reflected in wastewater data. The highest levels are mainly found in cities in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Spain.
In Cyprus, regional differences are observed, with Limassol showing the largest decrease, while Larnaca records the most significant increase (157%). Despite these local changes, usage levels remain low compared to other European countries.
Cannabis use high in all districts
Regarding cannabis use, an increase was recorded in all districts during 2024-2025, more pronounced in Nicosia and Limassol, while smaller increases were observed in Ayia Napa and Larnaca. Paphos shows relative stability. Despite the upward trend, levels remain lower compared to other European countries, the study notes.
Cannabis use is widespread across Europe, with the highest levels mainly found in cities in the Netherlands, Germany, and Slovenia.
Ketamine use inching higher
Ketamine use shows a decrease in Limassol and an increase in Larnaca. Notably, while concentrations were almost negligible in the past, they are now reaching levels comparable to those observed in several cities, mainly in central Europe, the study states.
At the European level, an increase in ketamine use is observed, with higher concentrations in some countries in western and central Europe (Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands).
Continuous monitoring required
According to NAAC and UCY, although Cyprus remains in a comparatively more favourable position, “dynamic patterns of use are emerging that require continuous monitoring and timely intervention.”
It adds that the recorded trends indicate that the window for prevention is limited and requires timely and targeted action.
NAAC head Dr. Christos Mina highlighted the importance of wastewater analysis epidemiology as an innovative scientific tool for monitoring trends in psychoactive substance use.
“Wastewater analysis allows us to better understand trends in psychoactive substance use in our cities and to identify changes in the use of specific substances early. In this way, we can design more targeted prevention interventions. Our goal is for scientific knowledge to be translated into evidence-based policy and meaningful action to protect public health,” he said.
Source: CNA