Khat - Chloroquine, Primaquine Phosphate Interaction
Herbal: Khat
Also Known As: Catha edulis, Abessinischer Tea, Abyssinian Tea, Arabian-Tea, Chaat, Chat, Gat, Ghat, Hagigat, Kafta, Kat, Kathine, Kus es Salahin, Miraa, Qaad, Qat, Qut, Radaee, Somali Tea, Tchaad, Thé Abyssin, Thé Arabe, Thé Somalien, Tohai, Tohat, Tschat
Drug: Chloroquine, Primaquine Phosphate
Brand names:
Aralen / Primaquine
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
Chloroquine, Primaquine Phosphate is classified as belonging to the following category: Chloroquine (Aralen)
Chewing khat after taking chloroquine appears to decrease the absorption of chloroquine. Chewing khat reduces the chloroquine area under the curve (AUC) by 25% and the peak plasma concentration by 18.3%. However, in patients with malaria, chewing khat did not significantly reduce the rate of treatment success with chloroquine compared to patients that did not chew khat. Chewing khat while taking chloroquine reduces the absorption of chloroquine and might reduce the efficacy of chloroquine. Until more is known, people taking chloroquine for the treatment or prevention of malaria should avoid chewing khat.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
ProbableInteraction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
References
- Issa FH, Al-Habori M, Chance ML. Effect of Khat (Catha edulis) Use on the Bioavailability, Plasma Levels and Antimalarial Activity of Chloroquine. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J. 2016;16(2):e182-8.
Khat Overview
Khat (Catha edulis) is a plant that is native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The leaves and shoots of the plant contain a stimulant compound called cathinone, which is structurally similar to amphetamine and has a stimulant effect on the central nervous system.
Khat is traditionally chewed or made into a tea to produce a feeling of increased energy, alertness, and euphoria. It is also sometimes smoked or used as a nasal decongestant.
Khat use has been associated with a number of negative health effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure, anxiety, insomnia, and addiction. It can also cause digestive problems, mouth sores, and weight loss. Due to the potential dangers of using khat, it is classified as a controlled substance in many countries, including the United States, where it is illegal to sell, possess, or use the plant or its products.
Khat - More Interactions
Khat interacts with 401 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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