Khat, a Cultural Chewing Drug: A Toxicokinetic and Toxicodynamic Summary

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2022

Authors

Silva B. (Author) Other; Soares J. (Author) Other; Rocha-Pereira C. (Author) Other; Mlad¿nka P. (Author) Other; Fernando Remiao (Author) FFUP; On Behalf Of The Oemonom Researchers (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Toxins

Vol. 53

Final page: 71

ISSN: 2072-6651

Publisher: MDPI

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00W-814

DOI: 10.3390/toxins14020071

Abstract (EN): Khat (Catha edulis) is a recreational, chewed herbal drug that has been used as a psychostimulant for centuries in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, namely in Somalia, Ethiopia, and Yemen. However, the growing worldwide availability of khat has produced widespread concern. The plant comprises a large number of active substances, among which cathinone, cathine, and norephedrine are the main constituents, which can be included in the group of sympathomimetics of natural origin. In fact, these compounds are amphetamine analogues, and, as such, they have amphetamine-like nervous system stimulant effects. Chewing the leaves gives people a sensation of well-being and increases energy, alertness, and self-confidence. The chronic use of khat is, however, associated with severe cardiac, neurological, psychological, and gastrointestinal complications. The psychological dependence and withdrawal symptoms of khat are the reasons for its prolonged use. The aim of this paper is to review current knowledge on the khat plant with toxicokinetic and toxicodynamic perspectives. Namely, this review paper addresses in vitro, in vivo, and human studies. The models used, as well as the concentrations and doses with the respective biological effects, are discussed. Additionally, the main drug interactions involved with khat are described.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 12