Carolina Rocha-Pereira

Prof. Dr. Carolina Rocha-Pereira

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Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

5Years (2022-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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20 January 2022 in Toxins
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
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BSBárbara Silva
Bárbara Silva
JSJorge Soares
Jorge Soares
Carolina Rocha-PereiraCarolina Rocha-Pereira
Carolina Rocha-Pereira
Premysl MladenkaPremysl Mladenka
Premysl Mladenka
Fernando RemiãoFernando Remião
Fernando Remião
OROn Behalf Of The Oemonom Researchers
On Behalf Of The Oemonom Researchers
Khat (Catha edulis) is a recreational, chewed herbal drug that has been used as a psychostimulant for centuries in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, namely in Somalia, Ethiopia, and Yemen. However, the growing worldwide availability of khat has produced widespread concern. The plant comprises a large number of active substances, among which cathinone, cathine, and norephedrine are the main constituents, which can be included in the group of sympathomimetics of natural origin. In fact, these compounds are amphetamine analogues, and, as such, they have amphetamine-like nervous system stimulant effects. Chewing the leaves gives people a sensation of well-being and increases energy, alertness, and self-confidence. The chronic use of khat is, however, associated with severe cardiac, neurological, psychological, and gastrointestinal complications. The psychological dependence and withdrawal symptoms of khat are the reasons for its prolonged use. The aim of this paper is to review current knowledge on the khat plant with toxicokinetic and toxicodynamic perspectives. Namely, this review paper addresses in vitro, in vivo, and human studies. The models used, as well as the concentrations and doses with the respective biological effects, are discussed. Additionally, the main drug interactions involved with khat are described.