Ephedrine
Brand name CAM
Used in the following combined preparations Do-Do, Dolvan, Expulin, Franol, Haymine, Secron, Vicks Medinite, and others general information.
In use for more than 50 years, ephedrine promotes the release of noradrenaline, a neurotransmitter. It was once widely prescribed as a bronchodilator to relax the muscles surrounding the airways, easing the breathing difficulty caused by asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. Newer, more effective drugs have largely replaced ephedrine tor these purposes. Its main use now is as a decongestant, which is usually applied as nasal drops. Adverse effects from nasal drops, when used in moderation, are unusual, but if taken by mouth the drug may stimulate the heart and central nervous system, causing palpitations and anxiety. It is not recommended for the elderly, who are more sensitive to ephedrine’s effects on the heart, and the drug may also cause urinary retention in elderly men.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Bronchodilator and decongestant.
Overdose danger rating Medium
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed No
Available as generic Yes
Information for Users
Follow instructions on the label. Call your doctor if symptoms worsen.
How taken
Tablets, syrup, injection, nasal drops.
Frequency and timing of doses
By mouth 3 x daily. Nasal drops 3-4 x daily.
Dosage range
Adults 45-180mg daily (by mouth); 1-2 drops into each nostril per dose (drops). Children Reduced dose according to age and weight.
Onset of effect
Within 15-60 minutes.
Duration of action
3-6 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. Protect from light.
Missed dose
Do not take the missed dose. Take your next dose as usual.
Stopping the drug
Can be safely stopped as soon as you no longer need it.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. Large overdoses may cause shortness of breath, high fever, fits, or loss of consciousness. Notify your doctor immediately.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this drug if:
You have a long-term kidney problem.
You have heart disease.
You have high blood pressure.
You have diabetes.
You have an overactive thyroid gland. You have had glaucoma.
You have urinary difficulties.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk and may affect the baby. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Reduced dose necessary.
Interactions
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Ephedrine may interact with these drugs to cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure.
Beta blockers Ephedrine may interact with these drugs to cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure.
Antihypertensive drugs Ephedrine may counteract the effects of some antihypertensive drugs.
Over 60
Not usually prescribed.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how ephedrine affects you. No special problems with nasal drops.
Alcohol
No special problems.
Surgery and general anaesthetics
Ephedrine may need to be stopped before you have a general anaesthetic. Discuss this with your doctor or dentist before surgery.
Possible Adverse Effects
Adverse effects from ephedrine nasal drops are uncommon, although local irritation can occur. When taken by mouth, the drug may have adverse effects on the central nervous
system (for example, insomnia and anxiety) and the cardiovascular system (palpitations). Taking the last dose before 4 pm may prevent insomnia.
PROLONGED USE
Prolonged use is not recommended except on medical advice. Decongestant effects may lessen and rebound congestion may occur.
