Known in Chinese as ma huang, ephedra is a plant extract that has been used in dietary supplements for weight loss. Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine -- two alkaloids in ephedra -- stimulate the central nervous system and in combination with caffeine, promote short-term weight loss. However, serious side effects can occur and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the sale of supplements containing ephedra in 2004.
Less Serious Side Effects
Adverse reactions have been reported with the use of products containing ephedra. Less serious and more common side effects may include dizziness, headache, irritability and gastrointestinal disturbances. Other less serious side effects include anxiety, insomnia, dry mouth, nausea and decreased appetite, according to Drugs.com.
Cardiovascular System
Ephedra negatively affects the circulatory system leading to a variety of negative health effects. Symptoms may include chest tightness, high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms. Direct effects on the heart include heart muscle damage and inflammation, heart attack, an enlarged heart, heart failure and cardiac arrest, according to the MayoClinic.com. Individuals with high blood pressure or a history of heart disease are at an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular effects from ephedra.
Allergic Reactions
Individuals allergic to ephedra, ephedrine or pseudoephedrine -- a common decongestant -- should not use products containing these ingredients to avoid a potentially severe allergic reaction, according to the MayoClinic.com. Signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction include a red and itchy rash, hives, facial flushing, swelling of the face and throat and breathing difficulties. In some instances, a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis may occur. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening condition with rapid onset after exposure to an allergen that can lead to shock, low blood pressure and unconsciousness.
Other System Side Effects
Ephedra negatively affects other systems of the body, apart from the cardiovascular system. Ephedra use showed two to three times an increased risk of psychiatric symptoms, such as euphoria, agitation, depressed mood and neurotic behavior, according to a meta-analysis by Dr. Paul Shekelle et al. published in the March 26, 2003 issue of the "Journal of the American Medical Association." Ephedra may also cause liver damage, urinary changes, kidney stones, uterine contractions and changes in the levels of potassium or glucose. Ephedra may also pass through breast milk to a feeding infant and cause irritability, crying and insomnia.
References
- RAND Corporation: Ephedra---Is It Worth the Risk?
- "Journal of the American Medical Association:" Efficacy and Safety of Ephedra and Ephedrine for Weight Loss and Athletic Performance
- Drugs.com: Ephedra Side Effects
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Ephedra
- MayoClinic.com: Ephedra
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Ephedra and Ephedrine Alkaloids for Weight Loss and Athletic Performance
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