Amsterdam still the drug capital of the Netherlands, sewage analysis shows

The highest levels of residues from drugs like MDMA, cannabis, and ketamine in all of Europe were measured in Amsterdam's sewage water last year. The concentrations were also relatively high in other cities in the Netherlands, comparison research from the European Drug Agency EUDA showed.

When it comes to MDMA, the active ingredient in ecstasy pills, other Dutch cities also ended up high on the list. Antwerp followed Amsterdam, then came Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Groningen on this section of the list.

Samples were taken from sewage water of 128 cities in order to conduct the research last year. The research showed that MDMA, cocaine, and amphetamines were seen more often on average than a year prior. There was a reduction in the amount of cannabis traces.

There are significant differences among European countries. Residues of cocaine were seen the most in Antwerp. Methamphetamine usage seems to be most widespread in the Czech Republic. The top six cities with the highest concentrations of the drug were in the country.

The measures show that usage of drugs like MDMA, cocaine, and ketamine peaks at the weekend and on Mondays. With methamphetamine, use is more evenly distributed throughout the week.

This indicates that the latter drug is also used by users during the week, while other drugs are mainly used in leisure time. Cannabis is still used the most, despite the decrease in the measurements, the researchers wrote.