Khat‐induced hypnagogic hallucinations
M. Granek, A. Shalev, A. M. Weingarten
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica October 1, 1988 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0447.1988.tb06367.x (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractKhat, a plant chewed for its stimulating effects due to the alkaloid cathinone, is widely used in eastern African and Yemenite populations and is often considered harmless. However, chronic khat chewing can lead to persistent hypnagogic hallucinations, a symptom not previously reported. Three case vignettes illustrate this phenomenon, which can complicate psychiatric diagnosis. Possible explanations include chronic suppression of REM sleep.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 3 |
| Population | Chronic khat chewers |
| Key finding | Chronic khat chewing can cause persistent hypnagogic hallucinations. |
Abstract
ABSTRACTKhat is a plant whose leaves are chewed for their stimulating effect. This effect is attributed to cathinone, an alkaloid identical to dextroamphetamine. Khat chewing is widespread among eastern African and Yemenite populations and is believed to be innocuous. Our experience shows, however, that a substantial number of chronic khat chewers experience persistent hypnagogic hallucinations ‐ a symptom that has not yet been described. Three vignettes illustrates this phenomena, which often interferes with psychiatric diagnosis. Different explanatory models are discussed, among them chronic suppression of REM sleep.