Cyprus: Amphetamine and Methamphetamine Use on the Rise, Wastewater Analysis Shows

A significant increase in the use of amphetamine and methamphetamine was recorded in cities across Cyprus in 2025, according to a study by the SCORE network in collaboration with the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA).

The pan-European study analyzed urban wastewater in 25 countries (115 cities), including Cyprus. The results were presented in a joint announcement by the Cyprus National Addictions Authority and the University of Cyprus.

While Cyprus still shows lower levels of psychoactive substance use compared to the European average, the data indicate a change in the usage profile, with increasing trends in specific substances and strong local variations, especially in urban and tourist centers.

Specifically, there was a 260% increase in amphetamine use in Limassol and 258% in Ayia Napa. Large local increases were also recorded in methamphetamine use in Ayia Napa (287%) and Larnaca (115%).

Cocaine use increased in Larnaca (93%), but decreased in Limassol (-66%). Cannabis use increased in all provinces during the period 2024–2025, with Nicosia and Limassol showing the most significant increases.

The President of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority, Dr. Christos Minas, emphasized the importance of wastewater analysis epidemiology for monitoring trends in psychoactive substance use.