Herb & supplement monograph

Khat Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS ·Updated July 2026

What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Khat interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Khat is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Khat is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Khat Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Khat drug interaction is moderate for most people, with a few well-documented interactions that deserve real attention. Only a handful of listed interactions are rated major, and the great majority are moderate, many resting on theory rather than proven harm in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The best-documented concern is amoxicillin: human research shows khat reduces how much of this antibiotic the body absorbs when the two are taken close together. Khat also lowers the absorption of chloroquine, although this did not clearly reduce malaria treatment success. Because khat can raise blood pressure and heart rate, it may work against blood pressure medicines and add to the effects of stimulants. There is also a signal that khat may slightly weaken warfarin, a blood thinner with a narrow safety margin, and it may make antipsychotic treatment less effective.

What the rest of the list means

A long interaction list does not mean every combination is harmful. Most entries are moderate and based on khat's stimulant-like effects or on theoretical reasoning rather than confirmed problems in people. In some cases, such as chloroquine, a predicted change in drug levels did not translate into worse treatment results.

Check your medications against Khat

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Khat interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Khat

405 medications have a known interaction with Khat, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

4 major interactions. These combinations can be clinically significant — best avoided, or used only with close professional supervision. Always check with your pharmacist before combining them with Khat.

Don’t want to scroll the list? Just ask.

Tell us the medications you take and we’ll check each one against Khat using our pharmacist-reviewed interaction data.

AI summaries are generated from our Khat interaction data for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI

2,830 drugs

Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
Probable. Interaction 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.
Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Khat combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.

The big picture

The kinds of drugs Khat affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Khat is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 7 drug categories Khat interacts with

Amoxicillin (amoxil, Trimox)Antihypertensive DrugsAntipsychotic DrugsChloroquine (aralen)Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois)Stimulant DrugsWarfarin (coumadin)

Amoxicillin (Amoxil, Trimox)

Clinical research shows that chewing khat reduces the bioavailability of amoxicillin when taken within 2 hours. Separate dose times by at least 2 hours.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B

Antihypertensive Drugs

Human research shows that khat and its constituent, cathinone, can increase blood pressure. Theoretically, khat might reduce the effect of antihypertensive drug therapy. Some antihypertensive drugs include captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), losartan (Cozaar), valsartan (Diovan), diltiazem (Cardizem), amlodipine (Norvasc), hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDiuril), furosemide (Lasix), and many others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Antipsychotic Drugs

Khat may affect response to antipsychotic treatment. In a large retrospective study of adults with newly diagnosed schizophrenia, chewing khat was associated with a decreased retention rate with the initial antipsychotic agent when compared with non-chewers, and lack of efficacy was the most commonly reported reason for switching antipsychotic agents among khat users. Until more is known, avoid khat in patients taking antipsychotic agents.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

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.

Likelihood Probable Evidence A

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)

In one case report, a 24-year-old man developed reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) thought to be caused by chewing khat in combination with treatment with tranylcypromine, an MAOI. Theoretically, the combination of khat and an MAOI might increase the induction of sympathetic stimulation, increasing the risk of vasoconstriction. Until more is known, avoid khat in patients taking MAOIs and for 14 days after MAOI discontinuation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Stimulant Drugs

Cathinone, a constituent of khat, appears to have sympathomimetic effects and can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Theoretically, combining khat with other central nervous system (CNS) stimulant drugs might increase the risk of cardiovascular toxicity. Some CNS stimulants include nicotine, cocaine, sympathomimetic amines, and amphetamines.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Warfarin (Coumadin)

Chewing khat might decrease the effects of warfarin. In a large observational study in patients receiving warfarin for mechanical heart valve replacement, chewing khat was associated with an average decrease of about 0.2 in the international normalized ratio (INR). These reductions were seen at two outpatient visits separated by 1 month. Until more is known, avoid khat in patients taking warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Monograph

Khat: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS · Reviewed July 2026 ·

The bottom line

Khat is a plant chewed for its amphetamine-like stimulant effects, but it carries serious risks including high blood pressure, heart problems, mental health effects, and dependence. It is a controlled substance and illegal in the United States and many other countries, so it should not be used.

Scientific name: Catha edulis
Family: Celastraceae
Part used: Leaves and young shoots
Common forms: Fresh leaves for chewing, dried leaves, tea; sometimes smoked

People commonly use it for

Stimulant for energy and alertness
Euphoria and mood elevation
Reducing fatigue
Appetite suppression
Social and traditional ceremonies

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance

OverallBest avoided

Khat is an addictive stimulant linked to serious health harms and is illegal in many countries.

PregnancyPossibly Unsafe

When used orally. Khat has been associated with reducing maternal food intake, maternal weight, infant birth weight, and placental blood flow. It has...

Read the full pregnancy detail

BreastfeedingPossibly Unsafe

When used orally. Khat has been associated with a reduction in breast milk production. Also, khat contains compounds that are metabolized to norpseudo...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

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Overview

Khat (Catha edulis) is a flowering shrub native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Its leaves and young shoots contain natural stimulant chemicals. People have used khat for centuries, mostly in countries such as Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, and Yemen.

The most common way to use khat is to chew the fresh leaves and hold them in the cheek, releasing the stimulant compounds slowly. Khat is also brewed into a tea, dried, or sometimes smoked. It is often used in social or cultural settings to feel more awake and talkative.

It is important to know that khat is a controlled substance in the United States and many other countries. Selling, possessing, or using it is illegal in these places.

How it works

Khat leaves contain stimulant chemicals, mainly cathinone and cathine. Cathinone is structurally similar to amphetamine and is the stronger of the two. Fresh leaves have more cathinone, which is one reason users prefer freshly picked khat.

These compounds increase the release of brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine. This produces the stimulant effects on the central nervous system — feeling alert, energetic, and euphoric. The same actions also raise heart rate and blood pressure. Much of what is known comes from laboratory studies and observations in people who use khat regularly.

Effectiveness

Does Khat work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD.

Evidence overview · 3 uses evaluated

1 Leans ineffective 2 Insufficient evidence

How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.

2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.

3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.

4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.

5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.

6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.

7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

Possibly Ineffective Diabetes

Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Khat is traditionally used to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, but effects on glycemic control are variable. A meta-analysis of available clinical research in nondiabetic adults shows that chewing khat leaves does not affect blood glucose levels. In adults with type 2 diabetes, chewing khat leaves increases blood glucose levels within 2 hours of use. Also, a large cross-sectional study in adults shows that chewing khat is associated with a 3.5-fold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes when compared with non-chewers. However, no association between chewing khat and glycemic control was found.

Sources Ref 95229 Ref 106447

Also studied for 2 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Muscle strength

Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

A small clinical study shows that taking a single dose of khat powder 45 grams in juice does not improve grip strength when compared with placebo in healthy males.

Sources Ref 98510

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Schizophrenia

Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

A large, retrospective study in adults with newly diagnosed schizophrenia receiving monotherapy with an initial antipsychotic agent shows that chewing khat is associated with an initial antipsychotic agent retention rate of 54%, compared with a retention rate of 78% among non-chewers. Lack of efficacy was the most commonly reported reason for switching antipsychotic agents among khat chewers. The validity of these findings is limited by the use of a retrospective chart review.

Sources Ref 106448

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Khat is not considered safe. It is an addictive stimulant linked to a range of physical and mental health problems. Regular users may become dependent and find it hard to stop.

People with heart disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, or other mental health conditions are at especially high risk of harm. Khat can raise blood pressure and heart rate and may trigger or worsen psychiatric symptoms.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Khat should be avoided. It has been linked to low birth weight and other concerns, and the stimulant compounds can pass to the baby through the placenta or breast milk.

Because khat is illegal in many places and carries serious health risks, talk with a doctor or pharmacist if you or someone you know is using it.

Side effects

Common side effects of khat include:

Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Dry mouth, mouth sores, and dental problems
Constipation or other digestive upset

More serious effects can occur, especially with heavy or long-term use. These may include heart problems, liver damage, mood disorders, psychosis (losing touch with reality), and dependence. A low mood or fatigue often follows when the stimulant effect wears off.

Khat: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Khat from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, Khat has been associated with euphoria, excessive talkativeness, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, anxiety, elevated blood pressure, tachycardia, and manic behavior. High doses of khat have been reported to cause depressed mood, paranoia and psychosis. Other serious adverse effects reported in individual cases or case series include migraine, cerebral hemorrhage, cerebral vasoconstriction, myocardial infarction (MI), pulmonary edema, and hepatic cirrhosis and/or encephalopathy.

Withdrawal symptoms, including, irritation, nervousness, depression, loss of appetite, trembling, hot extremities, sleep problems, and nightmares, have been reported in chronic users of khat.

Orally, chewing khat leaves has been reported to cause infection with Fasciola hepatica and Campylobacter fetus. This is likely due to contamination of freshly picked, damp leaves.

Reports by condition

Anorexia Hepatic

Orally, chewing khat has been reported to cause livery injury in at least a few dozen cases, with symptoms including jaundice, fatigue, pruritus, anorexia, abdominal pain, and dark urine. In some cases, liver injury has resolved after discontinuation of khat consumption. However, khat-induced liver injury has also involved cirrhosis, fibrosis, autoimmune hepatitis, or hepatic encephalopathy, sometimes with progression to death or liver failure requiring transplantation. Liver injury has occurred in acute and chronic users of khat, with exposure ranging from intermittent use for as few as 4 weeks to 100 grams daily for as long as 25 years. Most cases of hepatitis associated with khat have occurred in Europe, North America, or Australia, in immigrants from countries with traditional use. Some physicians in East Africa state that the absence of hepatotoxicity related to khat in Africa implies that any toxicity seen in other countries might be related to concomitant use with alcohol and/or potential contamination.

Orally, chewing khat has been reported to cause acute liver disease due to fascioliasis, or liver flute infection, in Somalian males living in the Netherlands. Fascioliasis symptoms include abdominal pain, eosinophilia, jaundice, and pruritus and typically resolve after treatment. The occurrence of fascioliasis after chewing khat is likely due to Fasciola hepatica contamination of freshly picked, damp leaves.

Anorexia Gastrointestinal

Orally, chewing khat has been associated with an increased risk for stomatitis, esophagitis, gastritis, keratosis of the buccal mucosa, and hemorrhoids. The increased risk for hemorrhoids is theorized to be a complication of constipation. Khat has been reported to cause dry mouth, decreased appetite, and anorexia.

The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Al Hadrani, A. M. Khat induced hemorrhoidal disease in Yemen. Saudi.Med.J. 2000;21(5):475-477.
McLean AS, Kot MB. Cardiac collapse associated with the ingestion of khat. Intern Med J. 2011;41(7):579-81.
Griffiths, P., Gossop, M., Wickenden, S., Dunworth, J., Harris, K., and Lloyd, C. A transcultural pattern of drug use: qat (khat) in the UK. Br.J.Psychiatry 1997;170:281-284.

Anxiety Neurologic/CNS

Orally, khat can cause euphoria, excessive talkativeness, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, anxiety, and manic behavior. After use, insomnia, malaise, and lack of concentration have been reported. Khat has been reported to cause migraine and cerebral hemorrhage.

Rarely, khat has been associated with encephalopathy, intraparenchymal brain hemorrhage, and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). In one case report, a 45-year-old male who had consumed "copious" but unknown amounts of khat developed hypertensive encephalopathy, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), and acute toxic leukoencephalopathy. After recovery, the patient remained non-verbal and unable to walk independently. In another case report, one patient developed headache, heavy tongue, and one-sided weakness one week postpartum from the tenth pregnancy, which was diagnosed as RCVS. Because postpartum RCVS typically occurs following the first three pregnancies, the authors suggested that chewing khat acted as the precipitating factor; however, this could not be confirmed.

The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Baharith H, Zarrin A. Khat - a new precipitating factor for reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a case report. J Med Case Rep. 2016;10(1):351.
Tuladhar AM, Boogaarts HD, de Leeuw FE, van Dijk E. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome after chewing khat leaves. Cerebrovasc Dis. 2013;36(2):158-9.
Bede P, El-Kininy N, O'Hara F, Menon P, Finegan E, Healy D. 'Khatatonia' - cathinone-induced hypertensive encephalopathy. Neth J Med. 2017;75(10):448-450.

Cirrhosis Other

Orally, chewing khat has been reported to cause infection from Fasciola hepatica and campylobacter fetus. There are multiple reports of acute liver disease due to fascioliasis, or liver flute infection, in Somalian males living in the Netherlands. Fascioliasis symptoms include abdominal pain, eosinophilia, jaundice, and pruritus and typically resolve after treatment. In one case report, a 28-year-old male developed a Campylobacter fetus infection involving fever, chills, diarrhea, reduced appetite, and headache. In all cases, the occurrence of infection after chewing khat was likely due to contamination of freshly picked, damp leaves.

Depression Psychiatric

Orally, khat has been reported to cause mood swings and depressed mood. High doses of khat have been reported to cause paranoia and psychosis, including strange experiences and hallucinations. In one cross-sectional study, such symptoms occurred more frequently in female and younger khat chewers. Similarly, a meta-analysis shows that khat chewers are 2 times more likely to develop common mental disorders than non-chewers. In one case report, a 33-year-old male with a history of prolonged and heavy khat chewing and no family history of psychiatric illness experienced psychotic symptoms, including visual and auditory hallucinations, delusions, and a suicide attempt. Symptoms fully resolved within 2 weeks of discontinuation of khat consumption. True psychotic reactions with khat chewing seem to occur less frequently than with amphetamine usage.

Orally, khat has been reported to cause psychological dependence. In one cohort of khat chewers living in the United Kingdom, approximately 31% reported symptoms related to dependence, including an increase in khat chewing due to cravings. Consistent use of khat followed by abrupt discontinuation is associated with withdrawal symptoms, including irritation, nervousness, depression, loss of appetite, trembling, hot extremities, sleep problems, and nightmares. Some cases of khat addiction have been successfully treated with bromocriptine.

Diabetes Endocrine

Orally, chewing khat has been associated with a 3.5-fold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Badedi M, Darraj H, Hummadi A, et al. Khat Chewing and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2020;13:307-312.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) Genitourinary

Orally, chewing khat has been reported to cause an initial increase in male libido followed by loss of sexual drive, spermatorrhea, and impotence. Khat has also been reported to cause urinary retention.

The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
McLean AS, Kot MB. Cardiac collapse associated with the ingestion of khat. Intern Med J. 2011;41(7):579-81.

Gingivitis Dental

Orally, chewing khat has been reported to cause increased plaque and gingivitis, periodontal pocketing, bleeding, tooth detachment, and gum recession. Analysis of available clinical research shows that habitual khat chewing increases the odds of gingival recession by 7-fold when compared with non-chewers.

Myocardial infarction (MI) Cardiovascular

Orally, khat has been reported to cause tachycardia, palpitations, and increased blood pressure; however, tolerance to these effects seems to develop with continued use. Chewing khat for at least 6 hours per day has been associated with an approximately 39-fold increased risk for myocardial infarction (MI).

Pregnancy-related edema Pulmonary/Respiratory

Orally, chewing khat has been reported to cause pulmonary edema and also has been associated with reductions in forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and maximum ventilation volume.

The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Woldeamanuel GG, Geta TG. Impact of chronic khat (Catha edulis Forsk) chewing on pulmonary function test and oxygen saturation in humans: A comparative study. SAGE Open Med 2019;7:2050312118824616.

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) Musculoskeletal

Orally, chewing khat has been reported to cause temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no safe or established dose of khat. It is not a regulated supplement, and the amount of active compounds varies widely depending on the freshness and source of the leaves.

Because khat is illegal in the United States and many other countries and carries real health risks, no dosing recommendation can be given. If you have questions about khat use, please speak with a pharmacist or doctor.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Khat & Pregnancy

Possibly Unsafe

When used orally. Khat has been associated with reducing maternal food intake, maternal weight, infant birth weight, and placental blood flow. It has also been associated with an increased risk for chest pain, elevated heart rate, and high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Manzar MD, Salahuddin M, Sony P, et al. Sleep disturbances and memory impairment among pregnant women consuming khat: An under-recognized problem. Ann Thorac Med. 2017;12(4):247-251.

Khat & Breastfeeding

Possibly Unsafe

When used orally. Khat has been associated with a reduction in breast milk production. Also, khat contains compounds that are metabolized to norpseudoephedrine, which passes into breast milk; avoid using.

Manzar MD, Salahuddin M, Sony P, et al. Sleep disturbances and memory impairment among pregnant women consuming khat: An under-recognized problem. Ann Thorac Med. 2017;12(4):247-251.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 47 references that drive our Khat monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Cats A, Scholten P, Meuwissen SGM, et al. Acute Fasciola hepatica infection attributed to chewing khat. Gut 2000;47:584-5.
Randall T. Khat abuse fuels Somali conflict, drains economy. JAMA 1993;269:12-13. DOI
Attef, O. A., Ali, A. A., and Ali, H. M. Effect of Khat chewing on the bioavailability of ampicillin and amoxycillin. J.Antimicrob.Chemother. 1997;39(4):523-525. PubMed
Hassan, N. A., Gunaid, A. A., Abdo-Rabbo, A. A., Abdel-Kader, Z. Y., al Mansoob, M. A., Awad, A. Y., and Murray-Lyon, I. M. The effect of Qat chewing on blood pressure and heart rate in healthy volunteers. Trop.Doct. 2000;30(2):107-108. PubMed
Al Hadrani, A. M. Khat induced hemorrhoidal disease in Yemen. Saudi.Med.J. 2000;21(5):475-477. DOI
Giannini, A. J. and Nakoneczie, A. M. Treatment of Khat Addiction with Bromocriptine Mesylate: A Case Report and Review of Cocaine- and Amphetamine-Like Effects. Am J Ther 1995;2(7):487-489. PubMed
Hassan, N. A., Gunaid, A. A., El Khally, F. M., and Murray-Lyon, I. M. The effect of chewing Khat leaves on human mood. Saudi.Med.J. 2002;23(7):850-853. DOI
Giannini, A. J., Miller, N. S., and Turner, C. E. Treatment of khat addiction. J.Subst.Abuse Treat. 1992;9(4):379-382. PubMed
Al Motarreb, A., Briancon, S., Al Jaber, N., Al Adhi, B., Al Jailani, F., Salek, M. S., and Broadley, K. J. Khat chewing is a risk factor for acute myocardial infarction: a case-control study. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2005;59(5):574-581. PubMed
Hassan, N. A., Gunaid, A. A., El Khally, F. M., Al Noami, M. Y., and Murray-Lyon, I. M. Khat chewing and arterial blood pressure. A randomized controlled clinical trial of alpha-1 and selective beta-1 adrenoceptor blockade. Saudi.Med J 2005;26(4):537-541 DOI
Brenneisen, R., Fisch, H. U., Koelbing, U., Geisshusler, S., and Kalix, P. Amphetamine-like effects in humans of the khat alkaloid cathinone. Br.J.Clin.Pharmacol. 1990;30(6):825-828. PubMed
Granek, M., Shalev, A., and Weingarten, A. M. Khat-induced hypnagogic hallucinations. Acta Psychiatr.Scand. 1988;78(4):458-461. PubMed
Nencini, P., Ahmed, A. M., Amiconi, G., and Elmi, A. S. Tolerance develops to sympathetic effects of khat in humans. Pharmacology 1984;28(3):150-154. PubMed
Jager, A. D. and Sireling, L. Natural history of Khat psychosis. Aust.N.Z.J.Psychiatry 1994;28(2):331-332. PubMed
Yousef, G., Huq, Z., and Lambert, T. Khat chewing as a cause of psychosis. Br.J.Hosp.Med. 10-4-1995;54(7):322-326.
Griffiths, P., Gossop, M., Wickenden, S., Dunworth, J., Harris, K., and Lloyd, C. A transcultural pattern of drug use: qat (khat) in the UK. Br.J.Psychiatry 1997;170:281-284. PubMed
Alhaddad OM, Elsabaawy MM, Rewisha EA, et al. Khat-induced liver injuries: A report of two cases. Arab J Gastroenterol. 2016;17(1):45-8. PubMed
Alsalahi A, Alshawsh MA, Mohamed R, et al. Conflicting reports on the role of the glycemic effect of Catha edulis (Khat): A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016;186:30-43.
Baharith H, Zarrin A. Khat - a new precipitating factor for reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a case report. J Med Case Rep. 2016;10(1):351. PubMed
Chapman MH, Kajihara M, Borges G, et al. Severe, acute liver injury and khat leaves. N Engl J Med. 2010;362(17):1642-4. PubMed
Coton T, Simon F, Oliver M, Kraemer P. Hepatotoxicity of khat chewing. Liver Int. 2011;31(3):434. PubMed
de Bree LC, Bodelier AG, Verburg GP. Fasciola hepatica as a cause of jaundice after chewing khat: a case report. Neth J Med. 2013;71(9):478-9.
Forbes MP, Raj AS, Martin J, Lampe G, Powell EE. Khat-associated hepatitis. Med J Aust. 2013;199(7):498-9. PubMed
Kassim S, Croucher R, al'Absi M. Khat dependence syndrome: a cross sectional preliminary evaluation amongst UK-resident Yemeni khat chewers. J Ethnopharmacol. 2013;146(3):835-41. PubMed
Martínez-Balzano C, Kohlitz PJ, Chaudhary P, Hegazy H. Campylobacter fetus bacteremia in a young healthy adult transmitted by khat chewing. J Infect. 2013;66(2):184-6. PubMed
McLean AS, Kot MB. Cardiac collapse associated with the ingestion of khat. Intern Med J. 2011;41(7):579-81. PubMed
Peevers CG, Moorghen M, Collins PL, Gordon FH, McCune CA. Liver disease and cirrhosis because of Khat chewing in UK Somali men: a case series. Liver Int. 2010;30(8):1242-3. PubMed
Roelandt P, George C, d'Heygere F, et al. Acute liver failure secondary to khat (Catha edulis)-induced necrotic hepatitis requiring liver transplantation: case report. Transplant Proc. 2011;43(9):3493-5. PubMed
Tuladhar AM, Boogaarts HD, de Leeuw FE, van Dijk E. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome after chewing khat leaves. Cerebrovasc Dis. 2013;36(2):158-9. PubMed
Manzar MD, Salahuddin M, Sony P, et al. Sleep disturbances and memory impairment among pregnant women consuming khat: An under-recognized problem. Ann Thorac Med. 2017;12(4):247-251. PubMed
Al-Maweri SA, AlAkhali M. Oral hygiene and periodontal health status among khat chewers. A case-control study. J Clin Exp Dent. 2017;9(5):e629-e634. PubMed
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. PubMed
Kalakonda B, Al-Maweri SA, Al-Shamiri HM, Ijaz A, Gamal S, Dhaifullah E. Is Khat (Catha edulis) chewing a risk factor for periodontal diseases? A systematic review. J Clin Exp Dent. 2017;9(10):e1264-e1270. PubMed
Al-Akhali MS, Al-Moraissi EA. Khat chewing habit produces a significant adverse effect on periodontal, oral health: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Periodontal Res. 2017;52(6):937-945. PubMed
Sallam MA, Sheikh KA, Baxendale R, Azam MN, Hossain AM, El-Setouhy M. The physiological and ergogenic effects of khat (Catha edulis Forsk) extract. Subst Use Misuse. 2018;53(1):94-100.
Bede P, El-Kininy N, O'Hara F, Menon P, Finegan E, Healy D. 'Khatatonia' - cathinone-induced hypertensive encephalopathy. Neth J Med. 2017;75(10):448-450.
Woldeamanuel GG, Geta TG. Impact of chronic khat (Catha edulis Forsk) chewing on pulmonary function test and oxygen saturation in humans: A comparative study. SAGE Open Med 2019;7:2050312118824616.
Abdulwadoud Alshoabi S, Noman Aljaber N, Omer Hussain A, Mohammed Aloufi K, Gafar Salih S. Khat Chewing Effect on the International Normalized Ratio in Patients with Mechanical Heart Valves under Warfarin Therapy. Pak J Biol Sci 2020;23(11):1487-1491. PubMed
Badedi M, Darraj H, Hummadi A, et al. Khat Chewing and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2020;13:307-312.
Hakami T, Mahmoud M, Mohammed B, El-Setouhy M. Effects of khat use on response to antipsychotic medications in patients with newly diagnosed schizophrenia: a retrospective study. East Mediterr Health J 2021;27(4):353-360. PubMed
Ongeri L, Kirui F, Muniu E, et al. Khat use and psychotic symptoms in a rural Khat growing population in Kenya: a household survey. BMC Psychiatry 2019;19(1):137. PubMed
Mekuriaw B, Zegeye A, Molla A, Hussen R, Yimer S, Belayneh Z. Prevalence of Common Mental Disorder and Its Association with Khat Chewing among Ethiopian College Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Psychiatry J 2020;2020:1462141. PubMed
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Palacios Argueta P, Attar B, Sikavi C, Alagiozian-Angelova V, Mishra S. Drug-Induced Liver Injury Caused by "Khat," an Herbal Stimulant. ACG Case Rep J 2020;7(11):e00480. PubMed
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Patel H, Kumar K, Essrani RK, Niazi M, Makker J, Nayudu SK. Acute Hepatitis in a Yemeni Immigrant Associated with Khat: A "Biological Amphetamine" Carried in Cultures. Clin Pract 2021;11(1):167-173. PubMed

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This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

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.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Khat: Common Questions

What is Khat used for, and does it work?

People use Khat for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.

Does Khat interact with prescription medications?

Yes. We list 405 medications with a known interaction with Khat, including 4 rated major. Use the checker above to see how Khat interacts with a specific drug.

How are Khat interactions rated?

Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.

Is it safe to take Khat with my medications?

It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.

Where does this Khat interaction information come from?

Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.

What is Khat used for?

People traditionally chew Khat leaves or drink Khat tea to feel more energetic, alert, and euphoric, and sometimes to reduce appetite. It is not a proven treatment for any medical condition.

Is Khat legal?

No. Khat is a controlled substance in the United States and is illegal to sell, possess, or use. It is also banned or restricted in many other countries.

Is Khat safe to use?

Khat is not considered safe. It can raise blood pressure and heart rate, cause anxiety, insomnia, dental and digestive problems, and lead to dependence.

Can I use Khat while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. Khat should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, since its stimulant compounds can reach the baby and have been linked to low birth weight and other risks.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Khat Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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Khat Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

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What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

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The kinds of drugs Khat affects

Khat: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Overview

How it works

Does Khat work?

Safety & precautions

Side effects

Khat: Reported Adverse Effects

Dosing

Khat & Pregnancy

Khat & Breastfeeding

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Khat: Common Questions

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