CATHINONE

Cathinone is an amphetamine like substance found in khat leaves, used in centuries in Africa as stimulating drugs.

NINE LIVES OF CAT

Khat (cot) leaves are chewed for a minute, after which he soft mass is kept tucked in the cheek as a ball and then slowly munched or swallowed. dried wings and twigs may be crushed and steeped in water for tea or made in to a paste for chewing. when taken in moderation, khat acts much like a caffeine, reducing appetite, and providing a mild stimulation. The active principle in Khat is Cathinone, a drug stronger that cocaine and with a similar effects.

METHCATHINONE

was patented as a wholly syntheric drug by the Pharmaceutical firim Parke-Davis. Methcathinone was listed as a schedule I controlled substance on May 1, 1993. making it illegal, of course, did not put an end to its use.

Methcathinone is considerably more potent and addictive than cathinone. the yellowish-white powder looks like cocaine and produces the same Euphoria as crack. both its chemical structure and stimulating effects. it is easy to make and the chemicals used are inexpensive. as with Methamphetamine Ephedrine is the key ingredient.

Cat powder is usually snorted or dissolved in water, and then drunk or injected. it may also be smoked for a particularly intense and rapid intoxication.

CATHINONE USERS

Khat is legal in Great Britain and many other in Europe countries, where it is imported by East Africans. it is also popular in the countries of North Africa, where it is used during holidays and celebrations. the stimulants make it easier to fast during the month-long Muslim holy period of Ramadan, when food should not be taken during the day.

LONG-TERM HEALTH PROBLEMS

Mild use of Khat is tolerated well, even over the long term, but frequent use of Cathinone or Methcathinone can cause problems similar to those of chronic amphetamine use. common features include a decline in personal hygiene, loss of appetite, muscle-wasting, overly enlarged taste buds, blue fingers and toes, acne, enlarged liver, antisocial behavior, and signs of Parkinson's disease. Anxiety and disorientation can progress to a complete paranoid psychosis. Chronic use of Methcathinone also cause a distinctive, very disagreeable body odor as the metabolic breakdown products are exuded from the skin.