Ephedrine is a central nervous system stimulant and decongestant that is structurally similar to the amphetamines.
Ephedrine is effective for relieving bronchial asthma, but increases heart rate and blood pressure.
Contrary to popular belief, there is no good evidence that substances containing ephedrine enhance one's exercise performance. It is banned by the International Olympic Committee and National Collegiate Athletic Association. The FDA recommends a maximum daily ephedrine dose of 24 milligrams, that supplements contain no more than 8 milligrams of ephedrine or related alkaloids per serving, and that ephedrine be used for no longer than one week. The FDA recommends that ephedrine-containing products carry a warning label indicating that taking more than the recommended dose may cause heart attack, stroke, seizure, or death. Ephedrine may also result in restlessness and insomnia as well as psychosis, memory loss and muscle injury.