etafedrine

Etafedrine (also known as ethylephedrine or N-ethylephedrine) is a long-acting sympathomimetic agent and selective beta-2 adrenoceptor agonist used primarily as a bronchodilator and decongestant. It is indicated for the treatment of cough associated with inflamed mucosa, bronchial congestion, bronchospasm, acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis exacerbations, and asthma. Unlike ephedrine, which acts both directly and indirectly by increasing norepinephrine release, etafedrine’s N-ethylation suppresses indirect sympathomimetic activity while enhancing direct beta 2-adrenoceptor efficacy. This results in bronchodilation without significant stimulation of norepinephrine release. Etafedrine has been available in combination products under brand names such as Dalmacol and Nethaprin but has largely been discontinued in many markets. It was previously manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis (now Sanofi). The drug is rapidly absorbed orally with peak plasma concentrations reached within an hour; it is excreted mainly via urine with a half-life of 3–6 hours depending on urinary pH[1][3][4][6].

Brand names

DalmacolNethaprin

Other names

2-[ethyl(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropan-1-ol2-Ethylmethylamino-1-phenylpropan-1-oletafedrine hydrochloride