It is administrated for allergic rhinitis (runny nose) and it belongs to the sympathomimetic central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, with adrenergic action.
It stimulates b2 receptors, but with a smaller affinity on the receptors of the upper respiratory tract (trachea, bronchi).
It has the ability to cause vasoconstriction, leading to blood pressure increase, through the production of adrenaline – epinephrine.
It has similar effects with clenbuterol HCL.
It is combined as a stack, along with caffeine and aspirin – salicylic acid.
Therefore, they act synergistically as catalysts (ECA: 25mg ephedrine, 250mg caffeine, 300mg aspirin), thus increasing the body temperature.
However, in extreme cases this may lead to hyperpyrexia (increase of body core temperature), or lower grade fever and reduction of the feeling of fatigue and physical pain.
That resembles the action of amphetamines.
Ephedrine alkaloids bring a state of euphoria to the CNS.
This may develop into hypomania and restlessness feeling.
Insomnia is very likely to occur, due to CNS overstimulation.
The pupils of the eyes are contracted and peripheral vasoconstriction in limbs is responsible for poor vascularity.
As a result, it’s a not a wise idea to use ephedrine HCL prior to sexual intercourse.
Ephedrine causes peripheral vasoconstriction in the cavernous bodies of the penis.
Occasionally, it gives an acute pain to perineum, which implies the stimulation of prostate gland.
Using ephedrine in a bodybuilding show will hinder vascularity and diminish the pumping effect of veins.
It is advised to be used before cardiovascular training, with an empty stomach, in order to maximize both intensity and fat burning process (beta oxidation of fatty acids).
Ephedrine’s action starts within half an hour, the peak of its action is within an hour of use, and its half life is approximately estimated around three hours.
Ephedrine HCL is a very useful tool when dieting, since it suppresses appetite and gives that satiety feeling.
The use of ECA stack increases dramatically systemic blood pressure, which is a serious contraindication for hypertensive patients.