It opens bronchial passages and stimulates the nervous and cardiovascular systems. Pseudoephedrine, a synthetic form of ephedrine that is found in Sudafed, Sinutab and other medicines, has fewer side effects and has been shown in extensive research to be effective. In some pills, manufacturers include caffeine and other stimulants in addition to ephedra. Supplements are not required to undergo the pre-market testing and quality controls required of pharmaceuticals, and thus their effects are far less proven or predictable. In health stores, fitness clubs and on the Internet, ephedra is touted as a diet aid, fat burner and muscle toner.
Athletes pop it before big games, students before tests.
The substance decreases appetite and, some believe, enhances sexual performance. It is found in more than 200 drinks, diet bars, pills, liquid drops, powders, teas and supplements with names such as Ultra Diet Pep and ThermoGenics Plus. Manufacturers estimate that Americans now consume 3 billion doses each year. Sarah Ingham had been taking the supplement for about a month. It's never been used in China as a daily supplement, or for weight loss and energy.