Ephedra, also known as ma-huang, is a plant that contains the stimulant ephedrine. Once found in a number of over-the-counter supplements, ephedra was banned after being linked to adverse effects like heart attack and stroke. Despite its ability to suppress appetite, ephedra is not considered a safe long-term solution for weight management. Understanding the pharmacological actions of ephedra and ephedrine and their role in weight loss allows consumers to minimize health risks.
Features
While the word "ephedra" generally refers to the Chinese Ephedra sinica plant, it actually includes a variety of species, such as Ephedra viridis and Ephedra equisentina.
Ephedrine--the alkaloid responsible for ephedra's stimulant properties--is sometimes isolated and used in medications for asthma and other breathing conditions. The ephedra plant also contains other compounds in smaller amounts, such as pseudoephedrine and norpseudoephedrine.
Effects
Ephedrine is a sympathomimetic amine similar to the body's own adrenaline. By stimulating the release of norepinephrine in the brain, it increases heart rate and body temperature while constricting blood vessels, resulting in feelings of enhanced energy and alertness.
Like amphetamines and other stimulants, ephedra acts as an appetite suppressant and can be used as a weight loss aid. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, short-term use of ephedrine and ephedra can cause statistically significant weight loss of two pounds or more per month.
Health Risks
Despite its modest effects on appetite and metabolism, ephedra is not considered safe for weight loss. According to Psychiatric News, four heart attacks, one seizure, nine strokes and two deaths have been reported in healthy patients taking ephedra-containing supplements. In addition, the herb has been linked with severe psychiatric side effects like hallucinations, anxiety and psychosis.
While severe adverse effects are somewhat rare, side effects like nausea, rapid heartbeat, insomnia and nervousness are common in people taking ephedrine or ephedra. Combining the supplement with other stimulants like caffeine further increases the risk of serious side effects.
Safety Precautions
The only way to prevent side effects is to abstain from taking ephedra and ephedrine altogether. People with a history of diabetes, heart disease, glaucoma or high blood pressure should avoid taking ephedra due to its effects on blood pressure and heart rate.
Starting with the lowest effective dose may reduce the risks of harm when taking ephedra or ephedrine for weight loss. Avoiding strenuous exercise, excessive heat and other stimulants is important to help prevent cardiac strain and dehydration. To avoid drug interactions, ask your doctor before adding ephedra or ephedrine to your weight loss regimen.
Considerations
While ephedra has been largely removed from the U.S. supplement market, it may still be purchased online or grown from seed. A few asthma medications still contain ephedrine, and are sometimes abused as weight loss drugs as well.
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