Myths & facts...about ephedrine use

Nursing, Apr 2003 by Munson, Becky Lien

MYTH: Ephedrine was developed for weight loss and bodybuilding.

FACT: Traditionally used as a bronchodilator and nasal decongestant, ephedrine is found in many sinus and cold medications available over the counter. Chemically similar to amphetamines, it's also used to treat chronic postural hypotension, enuresis, and narcolepsy. Its effectiveness for weight loss and bodybuilding hasn't been proven in large controlled studies, and it's banned by the International Olympic Committee and National Collegiate Athletic Association.

MYTH: Ephedrine is sale because it's made from an herb.

FACT: Derived from the ancient Chinese herb ephedra, or ma huang, ephedrine alkaloids can have powerful effects on the body. Mild adverse reactions are common and include palpitations, dizziness, insomnia, headache, nervousness, and skin flushing or tingling. Moderate to severe adverse reactions include tachycardia, life-threatening arrhythmias, and hypertension. Combining ephedra with caffeine or an antihistamine is especially risky.

MYTH: When used as a dietary supplement, ephedrine is an addictive stimulant.

FACT: Synthetic ephedrine derivatives are used to produce the street drugs ecstasy and methamphetamine, which are used as stimulants. But herbal ephedra used as a dietary supplement has a much lower level of ephedrine alkaloids and isn't used to produce artificial stimulants.

MYTH: Over-the-counter products containing ephedrine have been proven safe.

FACT: The Food and Drug Administration, which has received reports of deaths and illnesses linked to ephedrine-laced dietary supplements, warns consumers that these supplements haven't been proven safe or effective. The Department of Health and Human Services is calling for large comprehensive studies of the uses of ephedrine and reported adverse events.

MYTH: Ephedrine isn't widely used.

FACT: In the United States, an estimated 3 million doses of ephedrine are taken each year.

Becky Lien Munson is nursing supervisor at the Washington School for the Deaf in Vancouver, Wash. Selected references for this article are available on request.