"Among 12th graders, availability in 2024 for crack cocaine and cocaine powder was 10% and 9%, respectively, which are record lows (Tables 9-9 to 9-11 and Figure 9-5a). Earlier trends in availability resemble an inverted ‘U’. Availability of cocaine increased as use increased through the 1980s, and availability reached a study high of 59% in 1989, the same year study highs were also recorded for availability of the more specific measures of powder cocaine and crack. Importantly, this peak in availability occurred after cocaine use peaked in 1985, after which use began to decline sharply. Because perceived availability increased between 1986 and 1989, we are inclined to discount reduction in supply as an explanation for the significant and important decline in cocaine use observed during that period. As discussed in Chapter 8, the sharp increase in perceived risk for cocaine seems the more compelling explanation. After 1989, availability of cocaine declined steadily, with an exception of a slight rise during the 1990s drug relapse."
Miech, R. A., Johnston, L. D., Patrick, M. E., & O'Malley, P. M. (2025). Monitoring the Future national survey results on drug use, 1975–2024: Overview and detailed results for secondary school students. Monitoring the Future Monograph Series. Ann Arbor, MI: Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan.
