A manic-like psychosis due to khat (Catha edulis Forsk.)

A case is presented of a 23-year-old male who displayed symptoms of manic psychosis and increased sympathetic activity following ingestion of khat (Catha edulis Forsk.). The causal role of khat was verified by visual inspection of the plant and chemical identification of phenylpropanolamine in the urine. The active constituents and possible abuse potential of khat are discussed.