Ephedrine

Ephedrine is a centrally acting stimulant - an alkaloid derived from the plant ephedra sinica. In the hospital setting, it is frequently used in the ICU to treat low blood pressure. The chemical is The chemical structure of ephedrine is similiar to methamphetamine. The effects of ephedrine are not as potent as amphetamines', but they last longer.

Ephedra plant has a long history of use in the traditional chinese medicine, where it is frequently used in many herbal mixtures.

Ephedrine was once widely used as a nasal decongestant. However, because of its ability to cause fast heart rates and palpitations, its use as a nasal decongestant and in the treatment asthma has declined.

The substance is frequently abused by indivuals looking for stimulating effects, perhaps most often by athletes and students. Because the drug has the ability to stimulate the brain, it prevents sleep and one can stay awake longer and study more. When taken for long periods of time, ephedrine can cause physical dependence.

The legal status of ephedrine varies between different countries. It is often classified as a drug needing a prescription. Because ephedrine can be used to make methamphetamine, purchasing ephedrine is often strictly monitored.

In the United States it is legal to posses ephedrine, however, it's against the law for individual to buy more than 9 grams of ephedrine during a 30 day period.

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