Ephedrine is a bronchodilator and decongestant with stimulant properties. It is available in both prescription and over-the-counter formulations for the treatment of bronchial asthma, colds, flu and bronchitis. Because of health risks and concerns about the use of ephedrine to manufacture methamphetamine, products containing ephedrine are subject to additional regulation.
Function
Ephedrine works by opening bronchioles in the lungs. This eases breathing and helps to clear mucus from your lungs. All over-the-counter and some prescription preparations that contain ephedrine are combined with an expectorant, guaifenesin. Guaifenesin thins mucus in the respiratory tract and makes it easier to cough up. Ephedrine is indicated for short-term use only. It should not be taken daily for longer than a few days, except on the advice of your doctor.
Effects
Most people who take ephedrine experience noticeable side effects. Sometimes, the side effects are severe enough to make discontinuing the drug necessary, but they are usually only a nuisance. The most common side effects experienced while taking ephedrine include headache, dizziness, anxiety, restlessness, insomnia and stomach upset. Report any disturbing or unusual side effects to your doctor.
Considerations
Ephedrine is associated with some risks, which are more pronounced in people who have pre-existing health conditions or who take other medications. If you have diabetes, glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, prostate enlargement, seizures or an overactive thyroid, consult your doctor before taking this medication. Many drugs can interact with ephedrine, so if you are taking a prescription medication, ask your doctor before using ephedrine. Do not take ephedrine with over-the-counter drugs that contain pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine or caffeine.
Misconceptions
Ephedrine is often confused with other drugs and supplements that have similar names but that have important differences. Ephedra is an herbal preparation that contains ephedrine. It was banned in 2004 because of the risk of health problems associated with its use. The reason that ephedra was banned, but ephedrine was not, is that the amount of ephedrine contained in ephedra preparations was highly variable, and these products were being used for conditions other than those ephedrine is indicated for. Pseudoephedrine is chemically related to ephedrine, but is generally safer and has milder side effects. Pseudoephedrine is not particularly useful in the treatment of asthma, but it is an effective decongestant. Both pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are kept behind the counter in pharmacies, and regulations limit how much of these products you can purchase. This is because both products can be used to produce methamphetamine.
Warning
Ephedrine should not be used for purposes other than the short-term, occasional treatment of asthma, colds, flu or bronchitis, unless your doctor specifically tells you to do so. Ephedrine, especially if used for long periods of time or in higher-than-prescribed dosages, can cause strokes, heart attacks, heart arrhythmias, psychiatric problems and stomach ulcers. Although some people use ephedrine to lose weight, the effective dosage for this purpose can be very dangerous. If you feel you need medication to help you lose weight, ask your doctor about safer alternatives to ephedrine.
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