A sharp increase in amphetamine use has been recorded in several cities across Cyprus, highlighting a worrying trend in substance consumption. This finding comes from a study published on Tuesday by the SCORE network in collaboration with the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA).
The comprehensive study analysed urban wastewater in 115 cities across 25 countries to assess the consumption of illicit substances, revealing significant shifts in usage patterns, particularly in urban and tourist areas of Cyprus.
The Cyprus National Addictions Authority and the University of Cyprus noted that while overall drug use remains lower than the European average, the data indicates a notable rise in the use of certain drugs. Among the most alarming statistics is the increase in amphetamine consumption, which surged by 260 per cent in Limassol and 258 per cent in Ayia Napa.
Additionally, methamphetamine use saw a staggering 287 per cent increase in Ayia Napa and a 115 per cent rise in Larnaca. Although these figures are concerning, the study emphasised that levels in Cyprus are still comparatively lower than in northern and central Europe.
Interestingly, cocaine use also experienced fluctuations, rising by 93 per cent in Larnaca while plummeting by 66 per cent in Limassol. European trends show cocaine use is more prevalent in western and southern regions, particularly in countries like Belgium, the Netherlands, and Spain.
The study also highlighted that MDMA use has decreased across Europe between 2024 and 2025, with the highest concentrations found in cities such as Brussels and Amsterdam. In Cyprus, however, the trend varied significantly by location, with Larnaca experiencing the largest increase in MDMA usage at 157 per cent, while Limassol recorded the most substantial decrease.
Cannabis use has risen in all districts during the 2024–2025 period, with the sharpest increases taking place in Nicosia and Limassol. Smaller rises were noted in Ayia Napa and Larnaca, yet overall levels remain lower than the European average. Cannabis is widely used across Europe, with the highest levels found in the Netherlands, Germany, and Slovenia.
The study also shed light on ketamine use, which showed mixed trends: it decreased in Limassol but increased in Larnaca. Previously negligible levels of ketamine in Cyprus have now reached figures comparable to those in central European cities. At the European level, ketamine use is also on the rise, especially in countries such as Belgium and Germany.
Despite Cyprus’s relatively favourable position regarding drug use, the study’s authors stress the need for continuous monitoring and timely intervention. The emerging dynamic patterns of substance use require targeted action, particularly in urban areas.
Christos Mina, head of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority, highlighted the importance of wastewater analysis as a scientific tool for tracking drug use trends. He stated, “Wastewater analysis allows us to better understand patterns of psychoactive substance use in our cities and to detect changes early. In this way, we can design more targeted prevention interventions.” The goal is to translate scientific findings into evidence-based policies that effectively protect public health.
