Overview:
Cathine is one of the active constutuants in Khat (Catha edulis). 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.
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. Cathinone has a releasing effect on noradrenalin storage sites, which supports the conclusion that cathinone facilitates noradrenalin transmission. Drake (1988) also proposed that cathinone and cathine cause inhibition of noradrenalin uptake.
Side Effects and Adverse Reactions:
Cathine use may produce dependence, similar to other stimulants. Cathine can interact with therapeutic drugs. Phenylpropanolamine, which can display synergism with Cathine, 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 Cathine users, as this is likely to precipitate a dangerous level of sympathetic stimulation, possibly leading to a hypertensive crisis.
Research:
Cathine, an amphetamine-related compound, acts on mammalian spermatozoa via beta1- and alpha2A-adrenergic receptors in a capacitation state-dependent manner
Biochemical effects of Catha edulis, cathine and cathinone on adrenocortical functions
Adverse effects of khat: a review
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