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[Hypertensive effects of qat].
1Service d'Anesthésie-Réanimation, Centre Hospitalier des Armées Bouffard de Djibouti et de l'Infirmerie de Garnison, République de Djibouti. drgmion@club-internet.fr
Medecine Tropicale : Revue Du Corps De Sante Colonial
|March 24, 1999
Summary
Chewing qat leaves, a traditional practice, can elevate blood pressure, especially in individuals with pre-existing hypertension. This may lead to serious cardiovascular complications due to the drug's vasoconstrictive effects.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Ethnobotany
Context:
- Qat (Catha edulis) chewing is a widespread traditional practice in the Horn of Africa.
- Qat leaves contain amphetamine alkaloids, primarily cathine and cathinone, known for psychogenic and sympathomimetic effects.
- Traditional drug use practices necessitate understanding their physiological impacts.
Purpose:
- To monitor the cardiovascular effects of qat consumption in a controlled setting.
- To assess blood pressure changes in volunteers during a traditional qat ritual.
- To identify potential risks associated with qat use, particularly in hypertensive individuals.
Summary:
- Seven volunteers were monitored during a qat ritual.
- Three participants experienced an increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, with one having chronic arterial hypertension.
- Peak blood pressure elevations occurred approximately seven hours after the ritual began.
Impact:
- Qat use may precipitate hypertension and cardiovascular complications in untreated hypertensive individuals susceptible to vasoconstrictive effects.
- Findings highlight the need for caution among hypertensive populations engaging in qat consumption.
- This study contributes to understanding the health risks of traditional stimulant use.