Ephedrine HCL (not to be confused with ephedrine) is a sympathomimetic amine which works as an appetite suppressant, decongestant, stimulant, concentration aid, and last but not the least for treating hypotension associated with the problem of anesthesia.
Ephedrine is quite similar in its structure to the derivatives of methamphetamine and amphetamine.
Chemically, it is an alkaloid derived from various plants in the genus Epheda (family Ephedraceae).
It works mainly by increasing the activity of noradrenalin on adrenergic receptors.
It is usually marketed in the hydrochloride and sulfate forms.
Ephedrine HCL (hydrochloride) is made of some products and each product has its own identification.
Ephedrine.
Ephedrine HCL is a sympathomimitic alkaloid which is prepared from the species of ephedra or can be prepared synthetically.
The ephedrine reacts the same way as those of epinephrine, but the effects are not as powerful in fact are more prolonged, and if taken orally the effect is much better.
Whereas, epinephrine shows good response if taken by an injection.
Ephedrine HCL is basically used as muscle relaxants, central nervous system and cardiac muscle stimulants in combination with others like theophylline.
The main use of this drug is used in preventing hypotension during spinal and infiltration anesthesia.
Every drug has its own physical and chemical properties.
Likewise ephedrine hydrochloride major properties are-Physical state (white fine powder) Melting point (217-200 c) Solubility in water (soluble (soluble in alcohol) PH (4.
5 - 6) and the Stability (stable under ordinary conditions).
However, one should not confuse with the commercial ephedrine known as pseudoephedrine enantiomer whose reactions are less powerful and only very few central stimulant effect than ephedrine.
Pseudophedrine is used as a nasal decongestant and a bronchodilator to relax and open the air passages to the lung to increase the air flow.
And also used for the prevention of symptoms of bronchial asthma.