ephedrine /ef″ədrēn/ , an alpha- and beta-adrenergic agonist that also promotes the release of norepinephrine from sympathetic nerve terminals. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of asthma and bronchitis and is used topically as a nasal decongestant. The drug is historically important, but its use is now limited because of the availability of more selective beta-2 agonists for treating asthma. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Concomitant administration of monoamine oxidase inhibitors, hypertension, cardiac artery disease, cardiac arrhythmia, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are nervousness, insomnia, anorexia, and increased blood pressure.
