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What Is Synthetic PPA?

Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is an ephedra-related ingredient used in many decongestants and weight loss supplements. Synthetic forms are chemically constructed, separating the "active" compounds in the original plant (Catha edulis) and discarding the "inactive" ones.

  1. Use

    • Over-the-counter decongestants contain synthetic PPA, while weight loss supplements can contain PPA in either natural or synthetic forms.

    Process

    • In synthesizing the compounds found in plants, the drugs are more potent and have a more rapid, higher intensity but shorter duration. Holistic professionals argue that dangerous side effects are the result of the synthesization, not the ingredient in its herbal form.

    Side Effects

    • The FDA reported mild side effects of PPA as insomnia, headache, palpitations and nervousness, while moderately severe side effects included hypertension, arrhythmia and tachycardia (with risk of death). These risks were increased with concurrent use of caffeine or antihistamines.

    Clinical Studies

    • Results from the Yale Hemorrhagic Stroke Project, released in November 2000, concluded that there was a connection between PPA and hemorrhagic strokes.

    Controversy

    • Dr. Lawrence M. Brass of Yale-New Haven Hospital claims that while the Yale study showed women who used PPA had a 16 times greater risk of stroke, the absolute risk was very small: 1 in 500,000 people and 1 in 3 million doses.

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