What is ephedra?
Ephedra is a supplement and stimulant derived from the Ephedra sinica or Ephedra equisetina plant. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is called ma huang, and is used to treat asthma or other lung problems.
In humans, it has also been used in weight loss products and as an energy booster. Ephedra stimulates the body’s “fight or flight” response and targets the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and respiratory system.
Ephedra is banned as a dietary supplement in the United States and Canada due to its widespread abuse, but it is still used by herbalists.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately.
The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.
Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.
Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.
How is ephedra given?
- Ephedra comes in capsule, powder, and tablet forms.
- All forms are given orally (by mouth).
- Give this medication with food.
- Measure doses carefully, as ephedra is easily overdosed.
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions on administering this medication carefully and give it for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if your pet is feeling better.
This medication should take effect within 1–2 hours.
What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended amount of time between doses. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects?
Ephedra may cause the following side effects:
- Increased heart rate and/or blood pressure
- Increased body temperature
- Agitation or restlessness
- Sleeplessness
- Tremors
- Nausea and/or vomiting
Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning and could, in rare cases, lead to death. Sudden death has been reported. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving ephedra and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
- Collapse, severe weakness, seizures, stroke
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, though effects may last longer in pets with liver and/or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this supplement?
DO NOT USE ephedra in:
- Pets that are allergic to any component
- Pets with heart disease
- Pets with high blood pressure
- Pets with diabetes and/or glaucoma
- Pets with liver and/or kidney disease
- Pets with anxiety
- Pets with thyroid disease
- Pets that have an enlarged prostate
- Pets that are pregnant or lactating
- Pets that are old and/or debilitated
- Pets that are young
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Several medications should be used with caution when given with ephedra, including:
- Antidepressants
- Aspirin
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam)
- Beta adrenergic agonists (e.g., albuterol, epinephrine)
- Blood pressure medications (e.g., atenolol, amlodipine)
- Digoxin
- Stimulants, including medications that contain caffeine
- Theophylline
Vitamins, herbal therapies, and supplements have the potential to interact with each other, as well as with prescription and over-the-counter medications. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including all vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the supplement is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store ephedra?
- Store the medication in a cool, dry location.
- Protect from light.
- Follow manufacturer’s specific storage instructions.
- Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.
