Exploring methamphetamine trends in Europe

Concerns about the availability and use of methamphetamine in Europe have been growing for some time. Historically, the use of methamphetamine has been confined largely to the Czech Republic and Slovakia; however, recent signs of the spread of methamphetamine linked to different European countries have sparked further investigation of this topic. The methodology used is based on the triangulation of data collected using a number of investigative approaches and from multiple sources. The findings summarised in this paper include insights into the chemistry of methamphetamine and the history of its use in Europe since the 1930s. Signs of increased involvement of organised crime groups in methamphetamine markets and possible scaling-up of production are noted. In some countries, there is evidence to suggest that methamphetamine use is increasing, while new injection trends have been detected among small groups of gay men in large cities (London, Paris). Worrying reports are emerging from south-east Europe that crystal methamphetamine smoking is a limited, but emerging, problem, with the possibility of spreading among vulnerable populations. Negative consequences for physical and mental health are associated with the use of methamphetamine, which may also involve high levels of sexual risk-taking. Evidence exists for effective health and social responses, based on cognitive behavioural and contingency management approaches. The study notes that the knowledge available in Europe on the use of methamphetamine and the associated problems remains incomplete, and highlights information and research gaps. The report concludes that, although methamphetamine use is not a major phenomenon in Europe, even at a relatively low prevalence, it is a drug that has the potential to cause significant harm.