Captagon is reported to be a commonly used stimulant in the Middle East. In addition, some recent media reports have linked this drug to perpetrators of terrorist acts in Europe or terrorist groups based in areas of conflict in the Middle East. This report aims to provide an overview of what is known about the captagon phenomenon, and how it may concern Europe, to assist those working in the illicit drugs field who may need to respond to the issue.

Table of contents:
• Introduction
• The development of captagon use — from medicine to illicit drug
• The production and supply of captagon
• Media reporting on captagon use and recent terrorist attacks
• Conclusion
• References