How to Learn About Ephedrine

Ephedrine is a bronchodilator used to treat chronic respiratory disorders such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema. According to Drugs.com, ephedrine is also used to relieve temporary congestion associated with hay fever, colds and allergies. Ephedrine reduces swelling in the bronchial tubes, constricts blood vessels and widens the airway to allow for easier breathing. It is available as a main ingredient in some over-the-counter cold products, or by prescription in larger doses. Ephedrine is a strong medication, so it is important to learn about ephedrine before beginning treatment.

Instructions

• 1

  Schedule an appointment with your physician to discuss the benefits and risks of ephedrine therapy. Depending on your condition, ephedrine may be prescribed for temporary relief of acute breathing problems. Ephedrine is also sometimes prescribed for chronic breathing disorders under close supervision by a physician or lung specialist.

• 2

  Ask your physician if ephedrine is best for your particular condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, ephedrine can cause interactions with many medications including cardiac drugs, stimulants, antidepressants and seizure medications. Inform your physician of all prescription medications, herbal products and over-the-counter supplements you are taking.

• 3

  Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for reliable information on ephedrine. The CDC states that their mission is to provide credible information on diseases, treatments, medical conditions, statistics and healthy living. The CDC also hosts an online health channel that provides updated information on diseases, conditions and medication side effects.

• 4

  Call the FDA hotline for updated information on drug warnings and recalls.

  Check with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for up-to-date information on warnings concerning drugs like ephedrine. The FDA is responsible for placing safety alerts on drugs with reported dangerous adverse reactions and serious side effects. The FDA also lists drug recalls, market-withdrawals and drug specific information on their website.

• 5

  Borrow or buy a Physicians Desk Reference (PDR) for information on ephedrine. The PDR is a yearly published, medical reference book utilized by medical personnel to look up detailed information on medications and treatments. You can find PDR's in most libraries and large bookstore chains, or visit the Physician's Desk Reference website for online information about ephedrine.

• 6

  Talk to your pharmacist about the benefits and dangers concerning ephedrine. Pharmacists are very knowledgeable about medications, drug interactions and adverse reactions. Provide your pharmacist with a list of the medications and supplements you are taking, so he can check for drug interactions between ephedrine and your current medicines.

• 7

  Read the prescription information leaflet provided to you when filling your prescription for ephedrine. Prescription information sheets provide drug specific information from the makers of the drug, so they contain a vast amount of knowledge about the prescribed medication. If you have questions after reading the prescription medication leaflet, call your physician or pharmacist before starting ephedrine therapy.

• 8

  Request information from the American Lung Association on medications used to treat acute and chronic breathing disorders. The American Lung Association helps improve respiratory health through advocacy, education and research. Ephedrine is a commonly prescribed medication, but it is important to learn about the safety of ephedrine before beginning therapy.