Quick info
Ephedrine is the main active ingredient of the ephedra plant, but is also produced synthetically for medical use. Ephedrine belongs to the group of stimulants. Similar to caffeine, it stimulates the circulation, increases drive and performance, and inhibits appetite.
Ephedrine has a circulatory stimulating effect, increases drive and performance, and also inhibits appetite. There is an increased need to communicate and the urge to move. Ephedrine has an amphetamine-like effect, but much shorter and weaker.
Onset of action:
After 20 - 60 minutes
Duration of action:
Up to 5 hours
Swallowed:
Light: 10 - 20 mg
Medium: 20 - 30 mg
Strong: 30 - 50 mg
Forms of release:
Tablets, powder (sometimes in capsules) or as tea (ephedra).
Palpitations, restlessness, sleep problems, urinary urgency or retention and dry mouth. Feelings of anxiety, increased blood pressure (vasoconstriction), loss of appetite, dizziness, cardiac arrhythmia and even heart attacks are also possible. Overdose: confusion and paranoia. The tannins in ephedra can cause stomach problems in large quantities.
Long-term risks:
Continuous use: Impaired memory and concentration, irritability, nervousness, aggressive behaviour, cardiac arrhythmia, chronic high blood pressure, bad teeth, liver/kidney damage and psychological disorders. Regular ephedrine use can lead to the development of tolerance and dependence, especially with psychological symptoms.
If you or someone else needs urgent help after taking drugs or alcohol, call an ambulance on 144. Tell the emergency responders everything you know.
It could save lives.
