Ephedrine (EPH)
Ephedrine is used for relieving congestion due to colds, flu, hay fever, and allergies, and for temporary relief of shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing due to bronchial asthma. Ephedrine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Ephedrine is a decongestant and bronchodilator. Ephedrine works by reducing swelling and constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages and widening the airway, allowing you to breathe more easily.
Ephedrine Dosage
The dose of Ephedrine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctors orders or the directions on the EPH label. Take Ephedrine only as directed. Do not take more of it and do not take it more often than recommended on the label, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. To do so may increase the chance of side effects. Swallow the capsule or tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew before swallowing. If the capsule is too large to swallow, you may mix the contents of the capsule with applesauce, jelly, honey, or syrup and swallow without chewing. If a combination medicine containing aspirin has a strong vinegar-like odor, do not use it. This odor means the medicine is breaking down. If you have any questions about this, check with your pharmacist.
To help loosen mucus or phlegm in the lungs, drink a glass of water after each dose of Ephedrine, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
If you miss a dose of Ephedrine
If you must take Ephedrine regularly and you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage - How to store Ephedrine
- Keep Ephedrine out of the reach of children. Overdose is very dangerous in young children.
- Store Ephedrine away from heat and direct light.
- Do not store the capsule or tablet form of Ephedrine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
- Keep the liquid form of Ephedrine from freezing. Do not refrigerate the syrup.
- Do not keep outdated Ephedrine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded Ephedrine is out of the reach of children.
Side effects of Ephedrine
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON Ephedrine side effects persist or become bothersome:
Dizziness; headache; nausea; nervousness; restlessness; sleeplessness; stomach irritation.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE Ephedrine side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); difficulty urinating.