Ephedrine

Ephedrine is a natural phenylethylamine alkaloid, which is the main alkaloid found in ephedra species (e.g. Ephedra sinica, Chinese sea rouble - also known as "Mahuang") and Catha edulis. The substance forms a crystalline white powder with a bitter taste. Ephedrine is soluble in 4 parts water and ethanol.

Ephedrine releases norepinephrine and thus leads to an increase in adrenergic transmission. Since it has no hydroxy groups on the phenyl ring, it can pass the blood-brain barrier (although not as efficiently as amphetamine or methamphetamine).

In isolated or synthetically produced form, ephedrine - like the diastereomers D-pseudoephedrine and D-norpseudoephedrine - is used for its sympathomimetic effect in bronchial asthma and rhinitis. Ephedrine can stimulate circulation, increase drive and performance, reduce appetite, but also relax and in some people have a slightly sexually stimulating effect. It increases the urge to move, attention and the need to communicate.

The usual dose is 25-50 mg/day p.o.

In case of overdose the side effects are many: restlessness, anxiety, nausea, insomnia, tremor, pulse racing, sweating, difficulty breathing, confusion, hallucinations, delirium, headache, rarely: cramps.

Until 2001 ephedrine preparations were freely available in German pharmacies. Ephedrine was misused as an appetite suppressant, party drug. Ephedra herba is also available only on prescription in German pharmacies. Because of its appetite-suppressant and subjectively performance-enhancing effect, ephedrine is often used as a (prohibited) doping agent, often in combination with caffeine and acetylsalicylic acid.

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