Record-High Cocaine Consumption Detected in Prague’s Wastewater Study
A recent study has validated what many already believed—drug consumption is on the rise in the Czech Republic.
According to a thorough wastewater analysis performed by the TG Masaryk Water Research Institute (VÚV), cocaine stands out as the most frequently used drug in both Prague and Pilsen.
Meanwhile, methamphetamine (locally known as pervitin) is prevalent in Ústí nad Labem and Ostrava. The findings of the study also reveal a noticeable increase in marijuana usage, with its visibility in public areas growing, especially in Prague.
The era when individuals would discreetly smoke a joint seems to be over; nowadays, the aroma of marijuana is taking over the streets of the capital, replacing that of cigarette smoke. But you might wonder, how do scientists figure out which substances are being consumed and in which locations? The answer lies in wastewater analysis—a method that is innovative, anonymous, and remarkably precise for examining national drug usage trends.
How Scientists Monitor Drug Use Through Wastewater
Every year, researchers gather wastewater samples from major cities across the Czech Republic and analyze them for drug residues. This approach is simple and objective, providing straightforward insights into substance use among the population. The gathered data is subsequently submitted to the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA), enabling comparative analysis with other nations.
“This method delivers an objective and anonymous perspective on drug consumption within the community. It allows us to identify the most favored substances and pinpoint where their usage is most prevalent,” states Věra Očenášková, the project manager at VÚV.
However, why don’t scientists collect samples from the wastewater in just one single day? The explanation lies in the varying behaviors of individuals during the week. Friday and Saturday nights are typically associated with partying, while Mondays often turn into recovery and rest days. To obtain a comprehensive understanding of drug use, scientists collect wastewater samples throughout the week.
The samples extracted are analyzed using a liquid chromatograph, an advanced apparatus valued at CZK 15 million.
This sophisticated device is capable of precisely identifying the substances that have made their way through the sewer systems of the cities. Each analytical run takes around two hours, allowing for an in-depth overview of various drugs found in the wastewater.
Mapping Drug Use Across the Czech Republic
In Prague alone, several kilograms of cocaine are discarded in wastewater each week, which translates into hundreds of thousands of individual dosages. Addiction expert Michal Miovský believes that this data is essential for both law enforcement and public health initiatives.
“With this information, authorities are better equipped to identify where drug trafficking is most active and where preventive measures need to be concentrated,” he elaborates.
Prague continues to be the focal point for cocaine use, but elevated levels have also been noted in Pilsen, Brno, and České Budějovice.
Marijuana holds the title of the most widely used and accepted drug in the Czech Republic. “Marijuana has a long retention time in the body, which accounts for its substantial levels in wastewater,” clarifies Kateřina Grohmannová from the National Drug Monitoring Centre.
The highest concentrations of marijuana use have been documented in České Budějovice, Pilsen, and Prague, although significant traces were also found in Brno, Karlovy Vary, Ostrava, and Ústí nad Labem. Experts believe that the popularity of marijuana transcends generations, with consumption patterns remaining steady over time.
Ketamine usage is on the rise, particularly in Prague, Ústí nad Labem, Brno, and Pilsen. The growing trend in ketamine use raises concerns, particularly as its abuse can lead to severe health consequences. The recent death of actor Matthew Perry, which involved ketamine, has once again drawn attention to its associated risks.
Pervitin: The Long-Standing Meth Epidemic in the Czech Republic
Pervitin has long posed a significant challenge within the Czech Republic. It continues to be predominantly used in Ústí nad Labem and Ostrava, regions plagued by notable socio-economic issues. The drug’s affordability and easy availability contribute to its widespread appeal.
Three years ago, traces of pervitin were even discovered in wastewater samples from schools in the Chomutov area, suggesting that children below the age of 15 are experimenting with this substance. Additionally, the study uncovered elevated levels of pervitin use in Pilsen, České Budějovice, and Brno.
Ecstasy: The Party Drug of Choice
Ecstasy (MDMA) remains a preferred choice among revelers, with the highest levels identified in Prague and Ostrava, followed closely by Pilsen, Brno, and České Budějovice. In contrast to other drugs, the use of ecstasy is seasonal and peaks during weekends, which is reflected by the wastewater data—MDMA concentrations surge on Fridays and Saturdays, then see a noticeable decline throughout the rest of the week.
