ephedrine

Ephedrine is a sympathomimetic amine and central nervous system stimulant used primarily to treat clinically significant hypotension during anesthesia, bronchial asthma (as a bronchodilator), nasal congestion (as a decongestant), and occasionally for weight loss. It is naturally derived from the Ephedra plant and was first described in Western literature in 1888. Ephedrine acts as both a direct agonist at alpha-1, beta-1, and beta-2 adrenergic receptors and as an indirect sympathomimetic by promoting the release of norepinephrine from sympathetic neurons while inhibiting its reuptake. This dual mechanism results in increased blood pressure (vasoconstriction), cardiac stimulation (increased heart rate and contractility), bronchodilation, and CNS stimulation. Its use has declined for some indications due to the development of more selective adrenergic agonists.

Brand names

AkovazCorphedraEmerphedRezipres

Other names

ephedrine sulfateephedrine hydrochlorideEphedrinum