Ephedrine is a drug acting as a stimulant of the central nervous system and is extracted from the plant named ephedra equisetina. Diet pills which contain ephedrine as the main drug are called ephedra diet pills. Ephedrine can also be obtained by the chemical synthesis. Ephedrine sulfate is the synthetic product that is marketed in its salt form. Ephedrine sulfate is a white crystalline powder which has a bitter taste and is soluble in water. It is also soluble in alcohol. Ephedrine has almost similar structure as methamphetamine. However, CNS action of ephedrine is less strong and act longer than the CNS action of amphetamines. The peripheral stimulant actions are less powerful but quite similar to that of adrenaline, also called as epinephrine. Adrenaline is a hormone produced by adrenal glands in the body.
Ephedrine is useful in providing quick relief from the asthmatic attack in milder cases. This is because ephedrine possesses strong bronchial muscle relaxant properties. It is also helpful in treatment of chronic asthma by reducing risk of severe attacks. It also treats low blood pressure since it contract blood vessels and motivate some actions of heart. Ephedra die pill is among the top diet pills. Only side effect is the illness feeling.
