Norway currently ranks at the top of a new report from the EU drugs agency regarding self-reported cocaine use among young adults aged 16 to 30. While national surveys indicated a slight decline in self-reported use between 2024 and 2025, the EU findings highlight a significant prevalence of the drug in the country’s major cities, particularly during weekends and in combination with alcohol. This development has triggered concern among health authorities and prompted a sharp rise in individuals seeking treatment for cocaine addiction.
At the Oslo Drug Check office, a collaborative effort between the organizations Foreningen for human ruspolitikk and ProLAR nett, staff members use laser-based technology to analyze substances for the public. Daniel Mørk, who works at the facility, notes that many parents bring in powders or pills found at home out of concern. Recently, a sample tested by the machine turned out to be pure paracetamol, a common cutting agent used by dealers to increase volume and profit margins.
Rising Treatment Needs and Health Risks
Data from the Norwegian Patient Register shows a significant increase in the number of people receiving treatment or assessment for cocaine addiction. In 2020, 286 patients were treated for the condition; by 2025, that figure had climbed to 1,070. Overlege Jelena Staalstrøm at Oslo University Hospital notes that many who struggle with addiction wait a long time before seeking professional help, often attempting to regain control on their own first.
Helsedirektør Cathrine Lofthus emphasizes that the health risks associated with cocaine are severe, citing potential for lifelong health damage and, in worst-case scenarios, death. Physical effects include rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and increased risk of stroke or heart attack, while psychological impacts range from euphoria to anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Lofthus warns that these risks are particularly acute for young people whose brains are still in development.
The number of patients receiving treatment or assessment for cocaine addiction in Norway rose from 286 in 2020 to 1,070 in 2025, according to figures from the Norwegian Patient Register.
Societal Drivers and Accessibility
Ronny René Raveen, a writer, speaker, and former police officer who has experienced substance addiction, argues that the rise in cocaine use is linked to the strong normalization of alcohol in Norwegian society. According to Raveen, many users believe cocaine mitigates the negative effects of heavy drinking. He also points to the increased accessibility of the drug, noting that it can now be purchased with a single interaction on Snapchat, whereas previously it required established personal connections.
Students at the University of Bergen suggest that the trend may also be driven by social environment and the desire to emulate a wealthy lifestyle. Emma Sjøborg and Sofie Yndestad noted that they observed frequent cocaine use during their time as “russ,” suggesting that the drug’s presence is often heavily dictated by specific social circles.
The disparity between self-reported survey data and rising treatment numbers suggests a potential gap between how users perceive their own consumption and the actual clinical impact. When authorities like Helsedirektør Cathrine Lofthus emphasize that parents should not normalize alcohol at youth parties, they are identifying a systemic issue: the cultural blurring of lines between socially acceptable drinking and the use of illegal stimulants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Norway at the top of the EU report?
The report from the EU drugs agency (Euda) identifies Norway as having the highest level of self-reported cocaine use among young adults aged 16 to 30, based on usage over the last twelve months.
Why is paracetamol often found in cocaine samples?
According to Daniel Mørk of Oslo Drug Check, dealers mix cocaine with paracetamol because it is inexpensive, allowing them to double the quantity of the product they have to sell.
What is the stance of health authorities on this trend?
Helsedirektør Cathrine Lofthus is concerned by the multi-year increase in use, rising treatment numbers, and higher volume of police seizures. She advocates for better outreach to youth through social media and urges parents to take responsibility by not encouraging or normalizing alcohol use at youth events.
How do you think social media has changed the way young people perceive the risks associated with illegal substances?
