Ephedrine

Ephedrine is a naturally occurring substance that occurs in plants of the genus seaweed. It exhibits sympathomimetic properties. It is still sometimes used to treat hypotension and against narcolepsy. In the past, ephedrine was used more widely, for example as an asthma drug, as a rhinitis remedy (decongestion of the nasal mucosa) and in ophthalmology. However, due to newer, more selective drugs, it is not as commonly prescribed today. Due to its structural similarity to the narcotic drug methamphetamine (crystal meth), the distribution of ephedrine is strictly regulated. This makes potential abuse more difficult.

Pharmacodynamics

Ephedrine acts on adrenergic receptors in neurons in humans. It binds to alpha and beta adrenergic receptors. This increases heart rate and blood pressure and causes bronchodilation.

Wechselwirkungen

Ephedrin sollte keinesfalls gleichzeitig mit anderen Stoffen aus der Gruppe der Sympathomimetika oder MAO-Hemmern eingenommen werden. Dies kann zu lebensbedrohlichen Nebenwirkungen führen. Generell ist bei Arzneimitteln, die eine Wirkung auf adrenerge Rezeptoren haben (z.B: Antidepressiva), Vorsicht geboten. Eine gleichzeitige Einnahme wird generell nicht empfohlen.

Side effects

Side effects usually occur after administration of too high doses. Possible symptoms include anxiety, delirium, very high blood pressures and heart palpitations, hallucinations, sleep disturbances, respiratory distress and psychosis.

Toxicological data

LD50: 600 mg/kg (rat, oral)