Ephedrine, which is considered to be one of the most effective substances for weight loss, stimulates smooth sympathomimetic muscle alpha-adrenergic receptors. This CNS stimulant and fat-loss agent is also found to be effective in the treatment of asthma.
Chemical Composition
Ephedrine has an IUPAC Name of 2-methylamino-1-phenyl-propan-1-ol. It has the chemical formula of C10H15NO. It includes methylephedrine, methyl pseudoephedrine, pseudoephedrine, norpseudoephedrine (cathine), norephedrine, ephedine, ephedroxane, and pseudoephedroxane apart from alkaloid ephedrine.
In the chemical world, ephedrine is a phenylpropanolamine, belonging to a class of stimulant compounds.
Availability
Ephedrine is available as crude extracts of powders, tablets, teas, roots and aerial parts as well.
Administration
Ephedrine can be taken with or without food.
Contraindications
Ephedrine is contraindicated for individuals who are suffering from BPH, lactation, hypersensitivity, hypertension and thyrotoxicosis.
Precautions & Warnings
Individuals who are suffering from hyperthyroidism, hypertension, prostatic enlargement, angle-closure glaucoma, ischaemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, and renal impairment should make use of Ephedrine only under close qualified medical intervention. Ephedrine is contraindicated for pregnant and nursing women.
Adverse Reactions
Indiscriminate usage of Ephedrine may lead to ailments such as dry mouth, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, local irritation, rebound nasal congestion, anxiety, tachycardia, and tremor.
Recommended Dosage
The recommended dosage of Ephedrine is 30-60 mg three times a day for patients suffering from diabetic neuropathic oedema.
For others, the recommended dosage is less than 8 mg every 6 hours and not more than 24 mg in a single day.