Cocaine use in Madrid has grown by 24% in two years, with an alarming 42% of samples adulterated. The presence of levamisole and other additives poses serious health risks.
The city of Madrid has recorded a significant increase in cocaine consumption, with a footprint in wastewater rising from 380 milligrams daily per 1,000 inhabitants in December 2023 to 470 milligrams in October 2025. This increase in consumption is accompanied by a worrying trend: 42% of the analysed samples are adulterated, according to the report Hidden Substances prepared by Energy Control. This study, which covers analyses conducted between 2016 and 2025, reveals that 2,525 samples were contaminated, representing almost a quarter of the total examined.
Despite the increase in the average purity of cocaine, which reached a historic high of 70.7% in 2024, consumers face a dangerous cocktail. Levamisole, a banned antiparasitic for humans but still used in veterinary medicine, was detected in 97.7% of the samples where it appeared over the last decade. This compound not only visually mimics cocaine but can also transform part of it into aminorex, another stimulant.
“Detecting levamisole almost always equates to being faced with a sample”
, researchers state about this alarming finding. In addition to levamisole, other substances such as caffeine and phenacetin were also frequently found; the latter is known for its severe adverse effects and its association with certain types of cancer.
Despite a general decline in adulteration over the past ten years — which fell from 80.6%% to 37.5%% — last year showed a concerning rebound, reaching high figures once again. Compared to a decade ago, when more than 80%% was adulterated, there is currently less complete substitution with other substances; however, this does not reduce the risks associated with current consumption.
As the market evolves and becomes more sophisticated, consumers must be aware not only of the actual content of what they consume but also of the inherent dangers of these mixtures. The ongoing presence of substances like levamisole puts users at high risk due to its ability to reduce white blood cells and increase vulnerability to severe infections.
As this social and health phenomenon progresses, it is crucial for both authorities and citizens to take informative measures regarding the risks associated with recreational drug use such as cocaine. Data suggests that while there are advances towards greater overall purity within the black market, danger remains latent due to the deceptive practices used by some suppliers to maximise their profits without considering public health.
Despite the alarming context presented by this recent data on illegal drug consumption and adulteration in Madrid, it is essential to foster safe spaces where these issues can be openly discussed and to promote effective policies to mitigate their harmful effects.
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