Contraindicated in pregnancy. Do not use for continued period of time. Single dose of ephedra has 15-30 mg of ephedrine. Hence avoid in hypertension, thyrotoxicosis, narrow-angle glaucoma, pheochromocytoma, and prostatic adenoma coupled with urinary retention.
Many states have legislated restriction of availability.
Do not stop taking abruptly. Hence monitor patients taking warfarin or antiplatelet drugs. Because of uterine stimulant properties avoid in pregnant females. Avoid in children under two years of age. Mouth ulceration has been observed where leaves are chewed.