Name: Ephedrine
Class: Mixed (a-b) Agonist (Direct-indirect) (CNS active) (OTC)
Mech.: Stim. a and b receptors. Releases NE from symp. neurons. BP, HR, CO, constricts arterioles, relaxes smooth muscle of bronchi and GI tract. CNS effects.
Absorption: Oral ® high bioavail. Parenteral.
Dist.: CNS
Metab.: Slow hepatic metab.
Excretion, t½: Urine, mostly unchanged. rate w/urine acidification. 3-6 hrs.
Toxicity/S.E.s: hypertension, arrhythmias, insomnia (CNS)
Utility: Treat hypotension w/spinal anesthesia. Treat nasal congestion. Often included in OTC oral asthma preparations.
Special Features: Not metab. by COMT.