BACKGROUND: The leaves of Khat are chewed for their central stimulant effect, but their use may cause anorexia and constipation. METHODS:Gastric emptying of a radio-labelled semi-solid meal was measured in 12 healthy volunteers on two occasions a week apart. Subjects chewed either Khat leaves (Catha edulis) or lettuce for 2 h before the study. RESULTS:Gastric emptying was significantly (P < 0.02) prolonged after chewing Khat compared with lettuce. CONCLUSION: The sympathomimetic action of cathinone in Khat may cause the observed delay in gastric emptying.
RCT Entities:
BACKGROUND: The leaves of Khat are chewed for their central stimulant effect, but their use may cause anorexia and constipation. METHODS: Gastric emptying of a radio-labelled semi-solid meal was measured in 12 healthy volunteers on two occasions a week apart. Subjects chewed either Khat leaves (Catha edulis) or lettuce for 2 h before the study. RESULTS: Gastric emptying was significantly (P < 0.02) prolonged after chewing Khat compared with lettuce. CONCLUSION: The sympathomimetic action of cathinone in Khat may cause the observed delay in gastric emptying.