Wastewater analysis reveals sharp rise in cocaine and drug use in Lithuania’s major cities

A new wastewater study shows cocaine and other drug consumption surged in Lithuania’s largest cities last year, with Kaunas recording the highest cocaine levels in the country, LRT reports, citing data from the European SCORE project.

Kaunas led with 325.57 milligrams of cocaine per 1,000 residents daily, followed by Vilnius (245.93 mg) and Klaipėda (177.3 mg). The analysis also found cocaine use rising steadily in Vilnius and spiking on weekends across all three cities.

Amphetamine use was highest in Vilnius (76.25 mg/1,000 residents daily), while Kaunas saw a significant drop from its 2022 peak. Klaipėda’s levels remained low but stable. Metamphetamine use was most pronounced in Kaunas (167.23 mg/1,000 daily), placing it among Europe’s top 20 cities for consumption. Vilnius reported moderate use, while Klaipėda’s remained minimal.

MDMA use peaked in Kaunas, with Vilnius showing weekend-linked spikes. Ketamine was most prevalent in Vilnius, with negligible levels elsewhere.

The National Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drug Control Department (NTAKD) noted the study highlights ties between drug use and nightlife, with cities showing distinct consumption patterns. “Major cities are seeing rapid cocaine growth, Kaunas stands out for high methamphetamine use, and Vilnius leads in amphetamine and ketamine,” the department said.

The SCORE project, covering 115 cities in 25 countries, uses wastewater epidemiology to track real-time drug use trends by analyzing metabolites. The method is considered one of the most objective, avoiding reliance on self-reported surveys.