EphedraCurrent as of: October 9, 2017 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
![]() |
|
EphedraTopic OverviewNOTE: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the sale of dietary supplements that contain ephedra (ephedrine alkaloids) because of concerns about its safety. The product has been linked to heart attacks , strokes , and some deaths. What is ephedra?Ephedra-also known as ma huang and by its scientific name, Ephedra sinica-is an herbal product that comes from an evergreen plant. The Chinese used these plants 5,000 years ago, possibly for the treatment of asthma and hay fever. But they used plant preparations unlike the modern ephedra supplements that are now banned. Ephedra stimulates the nervous system and the heart. Serious problems are associated with ephedra. There have been some reports of heart attacks and deaths after its use. Is ephedra safe?The FDA has banned the sale of dietary supplements that contain ephedra (ephedrine alkaloids) because of concerns about its safety. The ban doesn't apply to other uses of ephedra, such as herbal teas or Chinese herbal remedies. Serious problems from using ephedra include:
Other side effects include:
For people who have heart disease, diabetes, or heart problems, using ephedra may make these conditions worse. Always tell your doctor if you are using a natural health product or if you are thinking about combining a natural health product with your standard medical treatment. It may not be safe to stop your standard medical treatment and use only a natural health product. Related InformationReferences
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff Current as ofOctober 9, 2017
Current as of: October 9, 2017 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
![]() |
Search the
Healthwise Knowledgebase Topic ContentsThis information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2018 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. |