Cocaine levels in Copenhagen wastewater double in a decade

Cocaine levels in Copenhagen’s wastewater have doubled over the past ten years, according to a new report from the Danish Health Authority published Thursday.

The study, based on samples from 29 treatment plants covering half of Denmark’s population, shows rising cocaine traces in major cities, with the highest concentrations in the capital. Weekly patterns also emerge, with higher levels detected on weekends than weekdays, though daily use persists.

Jacob Møller Antonsen, a senior physician and section head at the Health Authority, noted that Denmark’s cocaine consumption now places it at the higher end in Europe and above its Scandinavian neighbors, Norway and Sweden. The report estimates annual consumption exceeds seven tons, with cocaine accounting for 21 percent of all drug seizures last year.

Lene Caspersen, a social medicine consultant for Copenhagen Municipality, said the trend aligns with years of observation: more users, purer product, and easy access. She warned of severe health risks, including overdose, heart failure, and respiratory arrest, as well as growing addiction cases requiring professional intervention.

The wastewater data does not identify users, but Caspersen said consumption spans age groups, including youth.