Legal aspects of use

In Kenya, Yemen, Uganda, Ethiopia and Madagascar prohibition has resulted in increased illegal importation. When prohibition was replaced in Somalia by import duty, khat chewing became a very common habit within a few years. In Saudi Arabia khat cultivation and consumption are forbidden and the ban is strictly enforced. However, today, khat circulates freely in all of the above countries. In some countries, khat chewing is allowed, in others it is officially banned but there is no law enforcement (Reference ElmiElmi, 1983).

Obtaining khat in Western countries

In the UK, khat trade, possession and use are not illegal. Although cathinone and cathine, the major active constituents, are scheduled as class C drugs, khat itself is not a prohibited substance. An offence is committed only if cathinone or cathine are isolated from the plant. About 7 tonnes of khat pass through Heathrow airport each week, and smaller amounts are imported through other airports. Immigrants have spread the use of khat to the UK, Europe and USA. Heathrow airport serves as a hub for the re-export of khat to other European countries (Reference GoudieGoudie, 1987).

Ingestion of khat

The vast majority of those ingesting khat do so by chewing. Only a small number ingest it by making a drink from dried leaves, or, even more rarely, by smoking dried leaves. The chewer fills his or her mouth with leaves and stalks, and then chews slowly and intermittently to release the active components in the juice, which is then swallowed with saliva. The plant material is chewed into a ball, which is kept for a while in the cheek, causing a characteristic bulge (Reference Nencini, Ahmed and ElmiNencini et al, 1986).

Behaviours associated with the ritual of khat chewing

Khat chewing usually takes place in groups in a social setting. Only a minority frequently chew alone. A session may last for several hours. During this time chewers drink copious amounts of non-alcoholic fluids such as cola, tea and cold water. In a khat chewing session, initially there is an atmosphere of cheerfulness, optimism and a general sense of well-being. After about 2 hours, tension, emotional instability and irritability begin to appear, later leading to feelings of low mood and sluggishness. Chewers tend to leave the session feeling depleted.

Reasons for chewing khat

Chewing khat is both a social and a culture-based activity. It is said to enhance social interaction, playing a role in ceremonies such as weddings. In Yemen, Muslims are the most avid chewers. Some believe that chewing facilitates contact with Allah when praying. However, many Christians and Yemenite Jews in Israel also chew khat. Khat is a stimulant and it is used to improve performance, stay alert and to increase work capacity (Reference KalixKalix, 1984). Workers on night shifts use it to stay awake and postpone fatigue. Students have chewed khat in an attempt to improve mental performance before exams. Yemeni khat chewers believe that khat is beneficial for minor ailments such as headaches, colds, body pains, fevers, arthritis and also depression (Reference Kennedy, Teague and RokawKennedy et al, 1983).

Use by immigrants in the UK and other Western countries

In the UK, the chewing of khat is largely confined to ethnic communities accustomed to its use, such as the Somali community (Reference Gough and CooksonGough & Cookson, 1984). Wherever Somalis reside, khat is available. Reference GriffithsGriffiths (1998) carried out a survey of 207 Somalis living in London: 78% of men and 76% of women had used khat and 6% were chewing on a daily basis; the average frequency of use was 3 days per week. Of those surveyed, 76% were using more khat in London than they had in Somalia; 20% had started chewing khat since coming to London. Participants felt that community use was greater in the UK than in Somalia. The explanation most commonly given was that, because of high unemployment, more free time was available for chewing. There was also a desire to maintain cultural identity by chewing khat.

Active constituents

Khat contains more than 40 alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, amino acids, vitamins and minerals (Reference HalbachHalbach, 1972). Most of the effect of chewing khat is thought to come from two phenylalkylamines – cathinone and cathine – which are structurally related to amphetamine (Reference Nencini, Ahmed and AminconiNencini et al, 1984). The presence of amphetamine and caffeine in khat has been excluded. A number of other constituents, including cathidine, eduline and ephedrine, have been identified, but it is unlikely that any of these, except tannin, play a role in khat's effects (Reference Giannini, Burge and ShaheenGiannini et al, 1986). The structure of cathinone and its relationship to amphetamine are illustrated in Fig. 2.

Fig. 2

Chemical structures of amphetamine and cathinone.

Cathinone has been termed a ‘natural amphetamine’. It produces sympathomimetic and central nervous system stimulation analogous to the effects of amphetamine, hence its similar clinical effects. The difference in effect is due to slight pharmacodynamic variations between the stimulating substances, to other plant constituents (mainly tannins), and to differences in dosage and the mode of consumption.

Actions of cathinone and cathine

Cathinone is also named (–)-alpha-aminopropiophenone. It is considered to be the most active ingredient of khat. It has been isolated and synthesised and its effects have been shown to be similar to amphetamine, but with a lower potency. Cathinone is estimated to be 7–10 times more potent than cathine. It is difficult to synthesise, therefore it is unsuitable for marketing as a pure substance for drug misuse (Reference Nencini, Grassi and BotanNencini et al, 1989).

Cathine is also named (+)-norpseudoephedrine and phenylpropanolamine. It had previously been isolated from the plant ephedra, which has effects similar to those of khat. Cathine has a milder psychostimulant action than cathinone and the effects last for only a short time, so the user must chew leaves almost continuously. It plays only a minor role in the action of khat, but it is cathine that is responsible for the unwanted systemic effects. Normally, fresh leaves contain a higher proportion of the desirable cathinone. Where the content of cathine is relatively higher, the cathine causes more unwanted systemic effects. On drying, cathinone breaks down into cathine. Therefore khat chewers prefer fresh leaves that contain a higher proportion of cathinone to cathine, so that they obtain a better stimulation with fewer systemic adverse effects.

Modes of action

The constituents of khat have been shown to exert their effects on two main neurochemical pathways: dopamine and noradrenalin. It has also been postulated that, like amphetamine, cathinone releases serotonin in the central nervous system. Both cathinone and amphetamine induce release of dopamine from central nervous system dopamine terminals and thus increase the activity of the dopaminergic pathways (Reference Kalix and BraendenKalix & Braenden, 1985). Cathinone has a releasing effect on noradrenalin storage sites, which supports the conclusion that cathinone facilitates noradrenalin transmission. Reference DrakeDrake (1988) also proposed that cathinone and cathine cause inhibition of noradrenalin uptake.

Addiction, tolerance and withdrawal

Cathinone is the dependence-producing constituent of khat leaves. It is a reinforcer and maintains very high rates of responding in animal experiments (Reference Kalix and KhanKalix & Khan, 1984). Debate exists as to whether khat, like amphetamines, can actually cause dependence. Some authors describe a psychological dependence rather than a physical one (Reference HalbachHalbach, 1972). Tolerance to khat practically does not occur; if it does, the doses are increased only very slowly. This may be due to the intrinsic properties of khat or to the physical limits on the amount that can be consumed (Reference KalixKalix, 1988).

There are conflicting opinions regarding the existence of a withdrawal syndrome. Physical withdrawal symptoms are documented, including lassitude, anergia, nightmares and slight trembling, which appear several days after ceasing to chew. Depressive disorder, sedation and hypotension are sometimes seen after withdrawal of khat. In one study only 0.6% of khat chewers continued to use in order to prevent withdrawal symptoms (Reference Alem, Kebede and KullgrenAlem et al, 1999).

Psychological sequelae of chewing khat

Chewers report their subjective experiences of khat use in a positive way when consuming small amounts. They describe a feeling of well-being, a sense of euphoria, excitement, increased energy levels, increased alertness, increased ability to concentrate, improvement in self-esteem and an increase in libido. Also experienced are an enhanced imaginative ability and capacity to associate ideas, an improvement in the ability to communicate and a subjective improvement in work performance. After chewing ceases, unpleasant after-effects tend to dominate the experience: insomnia, numbness, lack of concentration and low mood. Some chewers also experience unpleasant effects during the chewing process, describing anxiety, tension, restlessness and hypnagogic hallucinations.

Objectively, chewers can be seen to show a range of experiences, from minor reactions to the development of a psychotic illness. Minor reactions include over-talkativeness, overactivity, insomnia, anxiety, irritability, agitation and aggression.

Broadly, the main psychiatric manifestations linked to the use of khat are a short-lived schizophreniform psychotic illness, mania (Reference Yousef, Huq and LambertYousef et al, 1995) and, more rarely, depression (Reference Pantelis, Hindler and TaylorPantelis et al, 1989). On occasions these presentations are associated with episodes of self-harm or harm to others. Owing to the mode of consumption, the dose of khat tends to be self-limiting, unlike amphetamines, which are available in a pure form for oral or parenteral administration. Therefore toxic psychosis as a result of excessive use is much less frequent with khat than with amphetamines.

Psychoses

The literature outlining the characteristics of psychoses following the use of khat describes two main types: a paranoid or schizophreniform psychosis (similar to an amphetamine-like psychosis) and a manic psychosis.

Depression

Several authors describe depression associated with chewing khat, but nearly all of these reports document that the depression arises on cessation of use. This has, on occasions, been associated with self-harm and suicide. Such behaviour has also been reported following amphetamine use and cessation (Reference Pantelis, Hindler and TaylorPantelis et al, 1989).

Self-harm, suicide and violence

Self-harm and suicide have been reported in the literature, although these are rare. Each has been documented during both chewing and the subsequent intoxication phase. One patient bit himself and repeatedly banged his head against the wall. Another patient took an overdose because of the distress caused by his paranoid symptoms. Suicide has been described by several authors in the context of a ‘withdrawal state’.

Violent acts, including homicide, are also documented, usually in the context of paranoid or persecutory delusions. Reference Alem and ShibreAlem & Shibre (1997) described a case where a patient murdered one of his wives and his daughter. He was acquitted of murder by the court, as he was deemed not responsible for his actions. Reference Alem, Kebede and KullgrenAlem et al(1999) also reported a case of combined homicide and suicide after chewing increased amounts of khat.

Physical sequelae

The physical effects of khat are well documented and can be described according to the physiological systems affected (Table 1).

Table 1

The physical adverse effects of khat

Cardiovascular system	Tachycardia, arrhythmias, palpitations, hypertension, vasoconstriction, ischaemia, infarction, pulmonary oedema, cerebral haemorrhage (Reference Giannini, Burge and ShaheenGianni et al, 1986) Exacerbation of pre-existing cardiac conditions
Respiratory system	Bronchitis, tachypnoea, dyspnoea, tuberculosis
Gastrointestinal system	Dry mouth, polydipsia, dental caries, periodontal disease, chronic gastritis, gastric ulcer, constipation (54% in one study Reference ElmiElmi, 1983), paralytic ileus, anorexia, weight loss, increased risk of upper gastrointestinal malignancy
Hepatobiliary system	Cirrhosis
Genitourinary system	Spermatorrhoea, impotence, libido change, urinary retention (complicated by diuresis from increased fluid intake)
Obstetric effects	Low birth weight, stillbirths, impaired lactation
Metabolic and endocrine effects	Hyperthermia, perspiration, hyperglycaemia
Central nervous system	Dizziness, impaired concentration, insomnia, headaches, migraine, midriasis, conjunctival congestion, impaired motor coordination, fine tremor, stereotypical behaviour (Reference KalixKalix, 1984)

Socio-economic effects

In communities where khat is used regularly it has negative impacts on health and socio-economic conditions.

Khat and cigarettes, alcohol and illicit drugs

A Home Office survey (Reference GriffithsGriffiths, 1998) noted that 60% of Somali khat chewers in London also smoked cigarettes; 75% of these were men, smoking 5–45 cigarettes per day. Only a minority used any other drugs and the most common was cannabis, used by 6% of the sample.

Heavy chewers use khat to stay awake, increase productivity or feel ‘high’. They then need alcohol to rest, calm their nerves or sleep: alcohol is used to counteract the stimulating effect and sleeplessness caused by the khat. Reference Omolo and DhadphaleOmolo & Dhadphale (1987) investigated the use of alcohol with khat, and surveyed 100 general hospital out-patients in Kenya: 29 chewed khat, and of these, 20 also drank alcohol, 12 of them heavily. Khat has been linked to the misuse of other drugs. In Somalia, high rates of concomitant heroin and cocaine use were found, but this was thought to be associated with the traditional availability of these drugs in that country.

Interactions between khat and prescribed medication

Khat can interact with therapeutic drugs. Phenylpropanolamine, which can display synergism with khat, is widely available in over-the-counter cold and appetite-suppressant preparations and in prescription drugs. The use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors is to be avoided in khat users, as this is likely to precipitate a dangerous level of sympathetic stimulation, possibly leading to a hypertensive crisis. Reactions to surgical anaesthetics may be bizarre in the chronic khat user and during the post-operative period the patient may be agitated and overaroused.

Urinalysis

In the UK, a commercially available biochemical test to detect khat constituents in the urine can now be used for confirmation of a suspected khat-induced state. Initially, a rapid screen by immunoassay detects amphetamine-related compounds. Then gas chromatography mass spectrometry is performed. This cannot detect cathinone directly, but a positive result indicates the presence of norephedrine, a cathinone metabolite. The test will give a positive result for up to about 48 hours after consumption of khat, although this is dependent on many factors, for example chronic consumption as opposed to a single episode of use, the quantity taken, the user's metabolism, and dilution of urine following consumption of fluids. The test is highly sensitive, but not highly specific, and there are some cross-reactions with other metabolites (Reference Lehmann, Geisshüsler and BrenneisenLehmann et al, 1990). However, in the context of the clinical presentation together with the history of khat consumption, the urinalysis is a useful additional test. In many areas urine testing is not available, and an accurate history of (increased) khat consumption prior to the onset of clinical symptoms is equally important, if not more so.

Reports of pharmacological management

Many episodes of khat-induced psychosis resolve spontaneously within 1–2 days of cessation of use; sometimes symptoms subside within less than 24 hours. Most clinicians agree that, even when antipsychotics are given, the improvement is attributed to stopping the khat rather than taking antipsychotics. Occasionally, a psychotic episode may require longer periods of treatment (i.e. several weeks) with antipsychotics for full resolution.

Case reports of effective resolution of symptoms describe treatment with thioridazine at doses of 300–600 mg per day for 1 week, haloperidol (doses not specified) and, in one case, electroconvulsive therapy (Reference Alem and ShibreAlem & Shibre, 1997). For several cases the duration of treatment with antipsychotics was not specified; however, reports of resolution of symptoms (dependent on cessation of khat use) were given as ‘within 1 week’. Treatment with new or atypical antipsychotics has not yet been reported. Box 1 lists practice points for clinicians managing patients who misuse khat. The following fictional case report describes a common situation.