Cardiovascular complications of Khat.
This article reviews current knowledge in khat (cathinone) research and its health impacts and toxicity in the cardiac system of khat chewers based on current evidence. The authors describe the process by which khat is postulated to induce multiple cardiac abnormalities by illustrating multiple case reports as described from around the world. The role of free radicals in inducing cardiac disease is also discussed. Future research areas are proposed to enhance our understanding of the mode of action of this toxicological drug.
Department of Adult Cardiology, Heart Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar.
Jassim
J
Al Suwaidi
Waleed M
WM
Ali
Samir L
SL
Aleryani
D000470:Alkaloids / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D029754:Catha / Q000737:chemistry*; D005609:Free Radicals / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000470:Alkaloids; D005609:Free Radicals; D010936:Plant Extracts; C023665:cathinone