A sharp increase in the use of amphetamines and methamphetamines was recorded in several cities across Cyprus in 2025, according to a study published on Tuesday by the SCORE network in collaboration with the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA).

The Europe-wide study analysed urban wastewater in 115 cities across 25 countries to assess the consumption of illicit substances.

In a joint statement, the Cyprus National Addictions Authority and the University of Cyprus said that while Cyprus continues to show lower levels of drug use compared to the European average, the data reveal “a clear shift in usage patterns”, with rising trends in certain substances and strong local variations, particularly in urban and tourist areas.

The most striking increases were recorded in amphetamine use, which rose by 260 per cent in Limassol and 258 per cent in Ayia Napa.

Although overall levels remain lower than in northern and central Europe, the upward trend is a cause for concern, the study noted.

Significant increases were also recorded in methamphetamine use, with a 287 per cent rise in Ayia Napa and 115 per cent in Larnaca.

In contrast, Limassol saw a decrease.

Across Europe, methamphetamine use remains relatively limited and concentrated mainly in parts of central Europe.

Cocaine use rose by 93 per cent in Larnaca but fell sharply in Limassol, dropping by 66 per cent.

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.

In Cyprus, trends varied by location.

Limassol recorded the largest decrease, while Larnaca saw the most notable increase, at 157 per cent.

Cannabis use increased in all districts during the 2024–2025 period, with the sharpest rises observed in Nicosia and Limassol, while smaller increases were recorded in Ayia Napa and Larnaca.

Despite the upward trend, usage levels remain lower than the European average.

The study noted that cannabis use is widespread across Europe, with the highest levels typically found in cities in the Netherlands, Germany and Slovenia.

Ketamine use showed mixed trends, decreasing in Limassol but increasing in Larnaca.

Researchers highlighted that while concentrations were previously almost negligible in Cyprus, they have now reached levels comparable to those observed in several central European cities.

At European level, ketamine use is also on the rise, particularly in countries such as Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands.

According to the statement, although Cyprus remains in a relatively favourable position, “dynamic patterns of use are emerging that require continuous monitoring and timely intervention”.

It added that current trends suggest the window for prevention is limited and requires targeted and immediate action.

The findings also underline the importance of wastewater epidemiology as an early warning tool, enabling more targeted public health policies.

Head of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority, Christos Mina, said the method offers a powerful scientific tool for tracking drug use trends.

“Wastewater analysis allows us to better understand patterns of psychoactive substance use in our cities and to detect changes early,” he said.

“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.”