Fake diazepam, vaping, and ketamine: New drug dangers threaten Spain's youth

Spain has become a major interception point for illicit drugs in Europe, seizing a significant portion of the continent's cocaine supply.

According to the 2025 European Drug Report, Spanish authorities were responsible for one-third of all cocaine confiscated across Europe. This underscores the country's critical role in the ongoing fight against international drug trafficking networks.

The report also sounds an alarm about the evolving landscape of drug abuse, particularly among young people. New and dangerous consumption methods are emerging, including the use of counterfeit diazepam, the vaping of illicit substances, and the use of ketamine. These trends pose a serious threat to public health, as they often involve substances of unknown purity and potency.

Furthermore, the report warns of the insidious danger posed by synthetic opioids. These potent substances are increasingly being found hidden within adulterated medicines, making them difficult to detect and increasing the risk of accidental overdose. The combination of these factors presents a complex and escalating challenge for drug enforcement and public health officials across Europe.