Ephedrine

Introduction To Ephedrine

Ephedrine is used to treat the low blood pressure commonly seen following spinal anesthesia. It raises blood pressure by narrowing the blood vessels of the heart.

Ephedrine is administered under the supervision of a doctor. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of the medicine for you. You should continue all your other medicines that are advised by the doctor for your long-term treatment even after this injection. Your doctor may advise for regular monitoring of blood pressure while you are taking this medicine.

The most common side effects of this medicine include nausea, vomiting, and increased heart rate. This medicine may not be suitable for some people. You must inform the doctor if you are suffering from diabetes, liver, heart, or kidney disease. Also, let your doctor know about all the other medications that you are using regularly. This medicine is not usually recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so always consult your doctor before taking it.

Uses of Ephedrine

  • Hypotension following spinal anesthesia

Benefits of Ephedrine

Hypotension following spinal anesthesia
Ephedrine is used to relieve low blood pressure (hypotension) which may occur due to administration of anesthesia in the spine during an operation. This medicine helps to bring back the blood pressure within normal range and therefore prevents any sudden fall or even serious complications that might have otherwise followed due to low blood pressure.

Side effects of Ephedrine

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Efipres

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Increased heart rate

How to use Ephedrine

Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.

How Ephedrine works

Ephedrine works on the blood vessels and increases the blood flow to heart and lungs, thereby improving the disease condition.

Quick tips

  • It is usually given as a slow injection into your veins by a doctor or healthcare professional.
  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • Inform your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken medication to treat severe depression.

Safety Advice

sdsPregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Ephedrine if I’m pregnant?

Ephedrine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.

sdsBreastfeedingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Ephedrine if I’m breastfeeding?

Ephedrine is probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into the breastmilk and harm the baby.

sdsAlcoholCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Is drinking alcohol while taking Ephedrine safe?

It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Ephedrine. Please consult your doctor.

sdsDrivingSAFE

Can I drive after taking Ephedrine?

Ephedrine does not usually affect your ability to drive.

sdsKidneyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Ephedrine if I have/had kidney diseases?

There is limited information available on the use of Ephedrine in patients with kidney disease. Please consult your doctor.

sdsLiverCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Ephedrine if I have/had liver diseases?

There is limited information available on the use of Ephedrine in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.

References

Written By:

Dr Advikka Ridhy

Dr Advikka Ridhy

MBBS

RMO, Aster MIMS

Disclaimer: The contents of this material are solely intended for informational purposes and do not serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. MediClap does not offer advice, endorse any specific prescription drug, pharmacy, or other information on the site. Furthermore, MediClap does not provide any warranty for the information presented. It is recommended that you seek medical advice prior to commencing, altering, or terminating any medical treatment.
MediClap strives to make its website accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Should you encounter any difficulty accessing this website, kindly send an email to hello@mediclap.com to enable us to provide the necessary services through alternative means.
MediClap is not affiliated with nor sponsored by any of the third-party brands mentioned. All trademarks, brands, logos, and copyrights mentioned remain the sole property of their respective owners.