Ephedrine: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Ephedrine?

Ephedrine is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat hypotension during spinal anaesthesia. It also treats breathing problems like bronchial asthma, nasal congestion and allergic reactions. Ephedrine is an Alpha/Beta-adrenergic agonist where α-1 receptors cause constriction of veins and raise blood pressure, and stimulation of β-1 adrenergic receptors increase cardiac action while the β-2 adrenergic receptors cause bronchodilation. Ephedrine can be taken by oral route and injection into muscle, vein or under the skin.

What are the Uses of Ephedrine?

Ephedrine is a direct and indirect sympathomimetic amine, a prescription drug that acts on the central nervous system. The dose and mode of administration depend entirely upon the doctor’s instruction and the patient’s condition. Uses of Ephedrine are as follows:

• Central nervous system stimulant
• Used to prevent (low blood pressure) during spinal anaesthesia
• Treat allergic reactions like bronchospasm and bronchial asthma
• Narcolepsy
• Myasthenia gravis
• Treat congenital myasthenic syndrome
• Heart rhythm problems like Stoke-Adams syndrome