Ephedrine (EPH) is a sympathomimetic amine similar in structure to the synthetic derivatives amphetamine and methamphetamine. Ephedrine is commonly used as a stimulant, appetite suppressant, concentraton aid, decongestant and to treat hypotension associated with regional anaesthesia. Chemically, it is an alkaloid derived from various plants in the genus Ephedra (family Ephedraceae). It is most usually marketed in the hydrochloride and sulfate forms. ephedrine loss pill weight Therapeutic doses for bronchodilation range from 12.5 to 50 mg three times per day, with maximum daily doses between 120 and 150 mg. Because of its indirect effect on neurotransmitter stores, long-term use of ephedrine can lead to tachyphylaxis. Increasing dosage can induce toxic effects, including peripheral vasconstriction and cardiac stimulation, leading to increased blood pressure and increased heart rate; adverse effects on the central nervous system include nervousness, anxiety, tremor, weakness, irritability and insomnia. These effects increase with high doses, and overdose leads to nausea, vomiting, fever, palpitations, tachycardia, hypertension, paranoid psychosis, respiratory depression, convulsions and coma. (5,6) ephedrine hcl Over-the-counter bronchodilators and cold medicines containing ephedrine are required to list the concentration in each dose, recommended dosage, potential adverse effects, and contraindications. (9) However products marketed as dietary supplements have not until recently been subject to similar regulation. Ephedrine products advertised as weight-loss aids, energy enhancers, and alternatives to illegal psychoactives have been sold for years without labeling indicating the pharmacologically active content of the products, let alone any potential adverse effects, contraindications, or dosage recommendations. In fact, much product marketing and packaging leads many consumers to believe that because an ephedrine product contains only the botanical source of the drug, it is safe. (10) Some products are directly mislabeled, and the actual content of many ephedrine products may far exceed that corresponding with legitimate therapeutic doses. One product that was analyzed by the Texas Department of Public Health indicated only wild Chinese ginseng on its label, yet laboratory analysis revealed a single tablet to contain 45 mg ephedrine and 20 mg caffeine. (11). Background: Long term recreational misuse has been linked to strokes and heart attack. |
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