What is oral ephedrine?

  • Ephedrine directly stimulates alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors and increases the release of norepinephrine.
  • Its actions include relaxation of bronchioles, increased heart rate and contractility, and increased blood pressure.
  • It also causes blood vessels in the nasal passages to shrink (vasoconstrict). Vasoconstriction reduces nasal congestion by preventing fluid from draining from blood vessels into the lining of the nasal passages.
  • Ephedrine is also a central nervous system stimulant used illegally for weight loss and for performance enhancement diet supplements.

Is oral ephedrine available as a generic drug?

Yes

Do I need a prescription for oral ephedrine?

No

Why is oral ephedrine prescribed to patients?

What are the side effects of oral ephedrine?

Common side effects include:

Possible serious side effects include:

What is the dosage for oral ephedrine?

  • A dose of 12.5 to 25 mg orally every 4 hours, not to exceed 150 mg in 24 hour has be used for treating bronchospasm.
  • The dose for treating nasal congestion in adults is 25 to 50 mg every 6 hours.

Which drugs or supplements interact with oral ephedrine?

What else should I know about oral ephedrine?

What preparations of oral ephedrine are available?
How should I keep oral ephedrine stored?
  • Ephedrine tablets should be stored at room temperature.

Is oral ephedrine safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Asthma Symptoms, Causes, and Medications

Medically Reviewed on 3/1/2019

References

Medically reviewed by John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP; Board Certified Emergency Medicine

REFERENCE:

FDA Prescribing Information