Ephedrine

About ephedrine

Ephedrine works by opening up the air passages in the lungs so that air can flow into the lungs more freely. In doing so they help to relieve symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.
Ephedrine is available in injection form to treat a sudden drop in blood pressure caused by an injection of anaesthetic in the spine

Before taking ephedrine

Before taking ephedrine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from hyperthyroidism (an over active thyroid gland).
• If you suffer from heart problems or high blood pressure.
• If you suffer from glaucoma.
• If you suffer from diabetes.
• If you suffer from kidney problems.
• If you suffer from prostate problems.
• If you have recently taken a type of antidepressant called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

How to take ephedrine

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take each dose at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• Ephedrine may keep you awake at night. To help prevent this, take the last dose for each day a few hours before bedtime.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not smoke. Smoking causes severe irritation and damage to the lungs. It will make your condition worse and will reduce the beneficial effects of your medication.
• If you have diabetes: Check your blood glucose levels regularly as this preparation can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.

Can ephedrine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Other side effects include fast, fluttering or irregular heartbeat, anxiety, restlessness, problems sleeping, shakiness, coldness of the extremities (fingers, toes and nose), problems passing water or reduced appetite

How to store ephedrine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines