Ephedrine Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Ephedrine Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Ephedrine HCl
Drug Class
- Sympathomimetic amine
Chemical Formula
C10H15NO
Molecular Weight
181.23 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Directly stimulates alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors, releasing norepinephrine
Indications
- Nasal congestion
- Bronchospasm
- Hypotension
- Myasthenia gravis
- Allergic rhinitis
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Solution for injection
Typical Dosage
- 25-50 mg every 3-4 hours orally
- 5-25 mg by slow IV injection
Pediatric Dosage
- Not established
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower doses may be required due to decreased clearance
Side Effects
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia
- Palpitations
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Tremor
- Headache
- Nausea
- Sweating
Contraindications
- Hypertension
- Coronary artery disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Closed-angle glaucoma
- Hypersensitivity
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available; caution advised
Drug Interactions
- MAO inhibitors
- β-blockers
- Digoxin
- Theophylline
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypertension
- Arrhythmias
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care, benzodiazepines for seizures
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed from the GI tract
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, present in breast milk
- Metabolism: Primarily metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted unchanged and as metabolites in the urine
Precautions
- Caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism
Warnings
- May cause dependence with prolonged use
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation
Others
- Ephedrine Hydrochloride is a controlled substance in some countries due to its stimulant effects and potential for misuse.