Patterns and trends of cocaine use in Germany

Aim: The present paper analyses changes in use and consumption patterns of cocaine in the German general population between 1980 and 2003. Methods: Data came from repeated, cross-sectional surveys on the use and misuse of psychoactive substances among adolescents (Drug Affinity Study, DAS) and adults (Epidemiological Survey on Substance Abuse, ESA). Results: Lifetime prevalence of the use of cocaine increased more than the lifetime prevalence of any other illicit drug use. The proportion of lifetime cocaine use to total prevalence increased significantly from 8.8 % in 1990 to 14.2 % in 2003. However, the proportion of lifetime users who continued to use decreased. Conclusions: The results indicate that the prevalence of cocaine use in the general population continues to be low. However, information about consumption patterns and the associated negative consequences in different groups at risk should be supplemented by specific studies.