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Khat chewing and bladder neck dysfunction. A randomized controlled trial of alpha 1-adrenergic blockade
A A Nasher1, A A Qirbi, M A Ghafoor
1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sana'a, Republic of Yemen.
British Journal of Urology
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Chewing khat leaves (Catha edulis) reduces urine flow rate in healthy males. This effect was blocked by indoramin, suggesting alpha 1-adrenergic receptors mediate khat
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Urology
- Ethnobotany
Background:
- Khat (Catha edulis) is a stimulant with known sympathomimetic effects.
- Urinary side effects associated with khat use have been anecdotally reported.
- Alpha 1-adrenergic receptors play a role in bladder outlet and urethral function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of khat chewing on male urodynamics.
- To determine if indoramin, a selective alpha 1-adrenergic blocker, can modify the urodynamic effects of khat.
- To elucidate the adrenergic mechanisms underlying khat's urinary effects.
Main Methods:
- Prospective randomized double-blind controlled trial.
- Urodynamic assessment in 11 healthy males.
- Comparison of effects during khat chewing with placebo versus indoramin pre-treatment.
Main Results:
- Khat chewing significantly decreased average and maximum urine flow rates.
- Indoramin administration inhibited the reduction in urine flow rate caused by khat.
- No significant adverse events were reported during the study.
Conclusions:
- The urinary side effects of khat chewing are likely mediated by the stimulation of alpha 1-adrenergic receptors.
- Selective alpha 1-adrenergic blockade may mitigate the lower urinary tract symptoms associated with khat use.
- Further research is warranted to explore the clinical implications in populations with habitual khat use.