Nicosia, Cyprus. A study published on Tuesday by the SCORE network and the European Union Drugs Agency recorded sharp increases in amphetamine and methamphetamine use in several Cypriot cities in 2025. The Europe-wide analysis assessed illicit drug consumption through urban wastewater.
Wastewater analysis across Europe
The study analysed urban wastewater in 115 cities across 25 countries to assess consumption of illicit substances.
Findings for Cyprus
In a joint statement, the Cyprus National Addictions Authority and the University of Cyprus said Cyprus continues to show lower levels of drug use compared to the European average, but the data indicate “a clear shift in usage patterns,” with rising trends in certain substances and strong local variations, particularly in urban and tourist areas.
Amphetamine and methamphetamine increases
The most striking increases were recorded in amphetamine use, which rose by 260 per cent in Limassol and 258 per cent in Ayia Napa. The study noted that although overall levels remain lower than in northern and central Europe, the upward trend is a cause for concern.
Methamphetamine use also increased, rising by 287 per cent in Ayia Napa and 115 per cent in Larnaca. Across Europe, methamphetamine use remains relatively limited and is concentrated mainly in parts of central Europe.
Cocaine and MDMA trends
Cocaine use rose by 93 per cent in Larnaca but fell by 66 per cent in Limassol. The study said levels in Cyprus remain comparatively lower than in other European countries, where cocaine use is more prevalent in western and southern regions, particularly in Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain.
Across Europe, MDMA use declined overall between 2024 and 2025, based on wastewater data, with the highest concentrations found in cities in Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain.
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