Ephedrine
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
165.23
Molecular Formula
C10H15NO
IUPAC Name
(1R,2S)-2-(methylamino)-1-phenylpropan-1-ol
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Ephedra sinica
Active Constituents
Ephedrine, Pseudoephedrine
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Mixed-acting sympathomimetic; directly activates alpha/beta receptors and promotes NE release.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Readily absorbed.
D: Crosses BBB.
M: Minimal hepatic.
E: Renal (largely unchanged).
Pharmacodynamics
Bronchodilation, increased heart rate and blood pressure, nasal decongestion.
Synthesis Pathway
Biosynthesized from phenylalanine.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Hypertension, tachycardia, insomnia, anxiety.
Contraindications
Angle-closure glaucoma, severe cardiovascular disease, concurrent MAOI use.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs (hypertensive crisis).
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Injection, Tablets, Nasal drops
Official Compendia
IP, BP, USP