Khat use: history and heart failure

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Khat (Catha edulis) is a stimulant used by 20 million worldwide, with historical roots in Ethiopia and Arabia.
• Its use has spread globally, particularly among immigrant communities in Western countries, facilitated by synthetic forms of its active component, cathinone.
• Despite health concerns and classification as a drug of abuse by WHO, khat remains legal in some regions and is culturally significant, especially in Yemen.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cardiovascular effects of khat chewing.
• To explore the potential mechanisms behind khat-induced cardiotoxicity and heart failure.
• To highlight the need for further research into risk factors associated with khat use and cardiac complications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on khat use and cardiovascular health.
• Analysis of the pharmacological properties of cathinone, the primary psychoactive component of khat.
• Examination of reported cases and studies linking khat consumption to cardiac issues.

Main Results:

• Khat chewing is associated with unfavorable cardiovascular effects, including impacts on heart rate, blood pressure, and coronary vasomotor tone.
• The effects are partly attributed to cathinone's amphetamine-like properties.
• Limited evidence currently links khat use directly to heart failure, indicating a need for more research.

Conclusions:

• Khat chewing presents significant cardiovascular risks that warrant further investigation.
• Understanding the direct effects of khat on the myocardium and identifying specific risk factors for cardiotoxicity are crucial.
• Additional research is essential to address khat-induced cardiomyopathy and heart failure.