Khat

Khat is a psychoactive plant chewed for its stimulant effects in Ethiopia and nearby regions. Khat's active compounds, cathinone and cathine, can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially worsening heart failure and increasing arrhythmia risk. Chronic khat use may reduce HRQoL, impair exercise tolerance, increase fatigue, disrupt sleep and daily routines, and reduce medication adherence. The article recommends that khat use be assessed as part of heart failure care and that culturally appropriate counselling be provided.