Changes in illicit drug consumption patterns in 2009 detected by wastewater analysis

Results suggest a trend toward a decrease in consumption of costly ID, such as cocaine and heroin. This might be due to a reduction in the number of consumers and/or to a change in their behaviour since there was also an increase in the consumption of less expensive ID. This itself might reflect a drop in consumers' money supply, caused by the economic crisis. Wastewater analysis was useful to estimate ID consumption levels in local communities in real time and promptly identify changes in trends.