Data from Mexico's Encodat 2025 survey reveals a distinct shift in substance use among adolescents (Gen Z and Alpha). While traditional habits like smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol are declining significantly compared to previous generations, there is a concerning rise in the use of electronic cigarettes (vapes) and prescription opioids. This trend mirrors global patterns where younger generations are moving away from conventional intoxicants but facing new challenges with modern delivery systems and pharmaceuticals.
Key Takeaways:
- Alcohol & Tobacco Decline: Teen alcohol use dropped by 10 percentage points, and cigarette smoking was cut in half.
- Vape Surge: E-cigarette use among 12-17 year olds nearly tripled, despite sales bans.
- Opioid Rise: Consumption of prescription opioids like Tramadol has increased significantly across all age groups.
- Generational Shift: Gen Z and Alpha show lower overall drug trial rates than Millennials did at the same age.
Generational substance use trends refer to the evolving patterns of drug, alcohol, and tobacco consumption across different age cohorts, often reflecting broader cultural shifts and the availability of new products. In Mexico, the latest National Survey of Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco Consumption (Encodat 2025) provides a revealing snapshot of how the youngest generations—Gen Z and Alpha—are diverging from their predecessors.
A Move Away from Traditional Vices: Alcohol and Cigarettes
One of the most positive findings from the Encodat 2025 is the significant reduction in the consumption of traditional legal drugs among adolescents aged 12 to 17. The data indicates a cultural shift where "partying" or socializing for this demographic is becoming less centered around alcohol and tobacco.
- Alcohol: There has been a remarkable 10 percentage point decrease in alcohol consumption among teenagers. In 2016, 28% of adolescents had consumed alcohol in the past year; by 2025, that figure dropped to just 17.8%.
- Cigarettes: The decline in tobacco smoking is even more pronounced. The prevalence of smoking in the past month among 12-17 year olds has been cut in half, falling from 4.9% in 2016 to just 2% in 2025.
The New Challenges: Vaping and Opioids
While traditional smoking is down, nicotine addiction has found a new vehicle. The survey highlights a worrying increase in the use of electronic cigarettes and vapes. Despite a prohibition on the sale of these devices in Mexico, their usage among adolescents increased from 1.1% in 2016 to 3.1% in 2025. This suggests that while young people are rejecting combustible tobacco, they are increasingly drawn to the technology and flavors of vaping.
Another area of concern is the rise in the use of medical drugs, particularly opioids. The survey notes an increase in adolescents who have tried prescription drugs at least once, rising from 0.6% to 1%. Specifically, opioid use jumped from less than 0.1% in 2016 to 0.5% in 2025.
A key factor in this increase appears to be Tramadol, a powerful pain reliever. The survey explicitly included Tramadol as an example of an opioid due to its detected misuse without prescription. Recognizing its high potential for dependence, Mexican health authorities recently amended the General Health Law to classify Tramadol as a psychotropic drug, enforcing stricter prescription and monitoring mechanisms.
Comparing Generations: Adolescents vs. Adults
The survey reveals distinct differences between the drug consumption habits of adolescents and adults (aged 18-65). Generally, today's teenagers are less likely to have tried drugs compared to the "youngest millennials" of 2016.
| Substance | Adolescents (12-17) Trend (2016-2025) | Adults (18-65) Trend (2016-2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Cannabis | Decreased (2.6% to 1.9%) | Increased (2% to 2.5%) |
| Cocaine | Decreased (0.6% to 0.2%) | Decreased (0.8% to 0.5%) |
| Amphetamines | Stable (0.2%) | Increased (0.2% to 0.3%) |
| Opioids | Increased (<0.1% to 0.5%) | Significant Increase (0.1% to 1.6%) |
This data confirms that Mexico is following a global trend where younger generations are smoking and drinking less than their predecessors, but are facing new risks associated with synthetic opioids and vaping technologies.
Tech Reviewer & Vape Enthusiast
Rohan Sharma is a dynamic and analytical voice in the Indian vaping landscape, blending his passion for technology with a deep understanding of the global vape market. Based in Bangalore, India's tech hub, Rohan leverages his IT background to dissect the intricate details of vaping devices, from chipset performance to coil longevity. His content aims to empower the growing Indian vaping community with precise, data-driven reviews and practical advice.