Overview:
Cathinone has been termed a ‘natural amphetamine’. It produces sympathomimetic and central nervous system stimulation analogous to the effects of amphetamine. Cathinone is also named (–)-alpha-aminopropiophenone. It is considered to be the most active ingredient of khat. It has been isolated and synthesized 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 synthesize, therefore it is unsuitable for marketing as a pure substance for drug misuse.
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.
The euphoric effect appears shortly after the chewing begins, suggesting absorption from the oral mucosa. The effect of cathinone is maximum after 15–30 minutes. Metabolism of cathinone is rapid, occurring mainly during first passage through the liver. Only a small fraction (about 2%) appears unchanged in the urine. Most cathinone is metabolized to norephedrine and is excreted in this form. The rate of inactivation is about the same as the rate of absorption, which limits the cathinone blood levels attainable by chewing.
Side Effects and Adverse Reactions:
Cathinone use may produce dependence, similar to other stimulants. Cathinone can interact with therapeutic drugs. Phenylpropanolamine, which can display synergism with Cathinone, 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 Cathinone users, as this is likely to precipitate a dangerous level of sympathetic stimulation, possibly leading to a hypertensive crisis.
Research:
Biochemical effects of Catha edulis, cathine and cathinone on adrenocortical functions
Adverse effects of khat: a review
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