Khat chewing and bladder neck dysfunction. A randomized controlled trial of α1‐adrenergic blockade

Objective To assess whether the effect of chewing khat leaves (Catha edulis) on the urodynamics of healthy males is altered by the selective α1‐adrenergic blocking agent indoramin in a prospective randomized double‐blind controlled trial. Subjects and methods The urodynamics of 11 healthy males were studied before and during a khat chewing session preceded by indoramin or placebo. Results Khat chewing produced a fall in average and maximum urine flow rate. This effect was inhibited by indoramin. Conclusions The urinary side‐effects of khat chewing are probably mediated through stimulation of α1 adrenergic receptors. Keywords Khat, Catha edulis, α1adrenergic blocker, indoramin, urodynamics. Copyright © 1995, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved