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Synthetic cathinones, known as bath salts, are a frequently used street drug in the United States. They have been discussed in a number of previous pearls. But from where did cathinone originate?
Khat (Catha edulis) is flowing plant native to the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa. It contains the monoamine alkaloid cathinone, which is an amphetamine-like stimulant that also causes euphoria. Historically, khat has been chewed for thousands of years and predates the use of coffee. Khat chewing is particularly popular in Yemen.
Khat contains many different compounds, which cause a number of different effects. Many of these effects are considered harmful to health. Khat chewing primarily impacts the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal system. However, it also has effects on cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, and genitourinary systems. In addition to the amphetamine like central nervous effects, other toxic effects include elevated blood pressure, tachycardia, insomnia, anorexia, constipation and general malaise.
Next time you see a patient with confusion and hallucinations from Yemen, Ethiopia, Somalia and other countries around the Horn of Africa, consider Khat in your differential.
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