While we evaluated only 20 products, the results indicate that product inconsistency is pervasive among ephedra supplement manufacturers. The UAMS researchers analyzed 20 different ephedra-containing products purchased mostly in 1999 from local retailers or via the Internet. Fifteen samples of each product and lot were analyzed. The content of ephedra alkaloids was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The study found that label claims for total ephedra alkaloids were often not indicative of the amount present.
Ephedrine is available over the counter in drugs used to treat allergies and asthma.
The herbal medicines, however, are not regulated. Half of the products tested had content versus label discrepancies greater than 20 percent. Five products contained substantial quantities of norpseudoephedrine, a Schedule IV controlled substance. The peer-reviewed journal is dedicated to the advancement of pharmaceutical care in all components of health systems. AJHP is published 24 times a year and has a total circulation of over 39,000.