What is Ephedrine Sulfate: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 12, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Ephedrine Sulfate overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Emerphed, Akovaz, PremierPro Rx Ephedrine Sulfate, PremierPro Rx Ephedrine Sulfate

Generic Names:

  • Ephedrine Sulfate

Uses:

  • Treats low blood pressure caused by other medicines. Also used to improve breathing.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Vasopressor

Forms:

  • Injectable

How it’s taken:

  • By injection

What form(s) does Ephedrine Sulfate come in

  • Injectable

What are common Ephedrine Sulfate doses?

  • Vial 1ML of 50MG/ML

How to take Ephedrine Sulfate

  • Injection routeYour doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin, into a muscle, or into a vein.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • This medicine is not for long-term use.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • This medicine is not for long-term use.

  • Injection routeYour doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin, into a muscle, or into a vein.

Ephedrine Sulfate contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to ephedrine.

Ephedrine Sulfate warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, enlarged prostate, thyroid problems, or a history of stroke.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Shallow breathing, pale or blue skin

  • Tremors, anxiety, nervousness, dizziness

Ephedrine Sulfate interactions

  • Some medicines can affect how ephedrine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following: Atropine, digoxin, guanethidine, mephentermine, methoxamine, phenylephrine, quinidine, reserpine, or theophyllineAn MAO inhibitorBlood pressure medicineErgot medicine

Ephedrine Sulfate side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat, sweating

  • Shallow breathing, pale or blue skin

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Tremors, anxiety, nervousness, dizziness

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed