Use of amphetamines and methamphetamines rose sharply in several Cyprus cities in 2025, according to a wastewater analysis by the SCORE network in cooperation with the European Union Drugs Agency.
The study examined wastewater from 115 cities in 25 countries to track consumption of illicit substances.
Cyprus’ National Addictions Authority and the University of Cyprus said the island still records lower overall drug‑use levels than the European average, but the latest findings point to “a clear shift in usage patterns,” with notable increases in specific substances and strong regional differences, especially in urban and tourist areas.
Amphetamine use recorded the steepest rises, jumping 260 percent in Limassol and 258 percent in Ayia Napa.
While levels remain below those seen in northern and central Europe, researchers said the upward trend is concerning.
Methamphetamine use also climbed, rising 287 percent in Ayia Napa and 115 percent in Larnaca, though Limassol saw a decline. Across Europe, methamphetamine consumption remains concentrated mainly in parts of central Europe.
The study noted that Cyprus’ levels remain well below those in western and southern Europe, where cocaine use is highest in Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain.
