Cathine (Norpseudoephedrine)
A mild natural stimulant, (+)-norpseudoephedrine, that is one of the active principles of the khat plant and has been used as a prescription appetite suppressant. It is weaker than amphetamine but shares sympathomimetic effects; it is internationally controlled and is a WADA-banned stimulant above a urinary threshold.
01 Overview
Cathine is a phenylpropanolamine-type alkaloid found in khat (Catha edulis) alongside the more potent cathinone. It has been marketed in some countries (e.g. Germany) as an anorectic under names such as Alvalin, and appears in older combination diet preparations.
Its stimulant action is modest, and its main present-day significance is as a controlled substance (Convention on Psychotropic Substances) and an anti-doping analyte, where it is prohibited in competition above a urine concentration threshold. It shares the cardiovascular caution profile of other sympathomimetic anorectics.
02 Mechanism
A releaser/reuptake inhibitor of noradrenaline and dopamine (sympathomimetic amine), producing appetite suppression and mild central stimulation.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anorectic dose | 20–50 mg/day | Oral | Historically ~20-50 mg/day (e.g. drops) for short-term appetite suppression. |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appetite suppressionReduced hunger typical of khat's milder alkaloid. | mild-moderate | Observational | |
| Mild stimulationIncreased alertness, weaker than amphetamine. | mild | Observational |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sympathomimetic cardiovascular effectsRaised heart rate and blood pressure, palpitations. | Moderate | Common | Observational | |
| Insomnia and restlessnessOverstimulation and disturbed sleep. | Mild | Common | Observational |