Ephedrine and Weight Loss

Ephedrine promotes modest short-term weight loss, specifically fat loss, but its long-term potential effects are unknown. In fact, there is no evidence that ephedrine actually reduces body fat.

The FDA approved it in 1938 for use in asthma and later expanded its uses to include nasal congestion and cold symptoms. But in 2004, the agency banned it over concerns about its potential side effects.

Anecdotal reports suggest that some people experience increased appetite, insomnia, muscle cramps, nervousness, and tremors. Some people report feeling jittery or anxious. And there have been rare cases of heart attack, stroke, and seizures reported in association with taking ephedra products.

In addition, the drug increases blood pressure, and regular use may cause high blood pressure.

In 2008, the Food and Drug Administration warned consumers against buying products containing ephedra because of the risk of serious health problems.

The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends that doctors avoid prescribing ephedra and similar drugs to patients without a history of hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, or obesity.

Recreational Use Of Ephedrine

Ephedrine is sold legally in many countries for medicinal purposes, primarily as a nasal decongestant. Ephedrine is also sold illegally as a dietary supplement and recreationally as a stimulant drug.

In the United States, ephedra and pseudoephedrine are classified as Schedule III controlled substances, while ephedrine itself is classified as a Schedule IV substance. In Canada, ephedrine is a prescription medication and is regulated under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

The primary effects of ephedrine occur within minutes of ingestion and peak about 30–60 minutes later. Common side effects include dry mouth, headache, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, flushing, palpitations, tachycardia, hypotension, and hypertension.

As a recreational drug, ephedrine produces euphoric effects and increases energy levels. It is often mixed with caffeine or cocaine. Ephedrine is sometimes abused as a weight loss aid.

Ephedrine abuse is associated with several adverse health consequences including cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, psychosis, myocardial infarction, stroke, sudden death, hypertension, and hyperthermia. Recreational use of ephedrine may lead to addiction.