How does pseudoephedrine work as a decongestant. What are the potential side effects of pseudoephedrine abuse. Why is pseudoephedrine regulated and how does it relate to methamphetamine production. What are the legal restrictions on purchasing pseudoephedrine products.

The Nature of Pseudoephedrine: More Than Just a Decongestant

Pseudoephedrine is a widely used decongestant found in many cold and sinus medications. Its primary function is to alleviate nasal congestion and sinus pressure, providing relief from common cold symptoms. However, the chemical structure of pseudoephedrine is closely related to amphetamine, which has led to concerns about its potential for abuse and misuse.

How does pseudoephedrine work in the body? This medication functions by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, effectively reducing swelling and congestion. It’s important to note that while pseudoephedrine treats symptoms, it does not cure infections or speed up recovery time.

Common Pseudoephedrine Products

• Sudafed Congestion
• Genaphed
• Seudotabs
• Silfedrine
• Suphedrine
• Nasofed

Pseudoephedrine is available in various forms, including liquids and tablets. Some products combine pseudoephedrine with other active ingredients to address multiple symptoms simultaneously. Examples of combination drugs include:

• Zyrtec-D (pseudoephedrine and cetirizine)
• Claritin-D (loratadine and pseudoephedrine)
• Advil Cold and Sinus (pseudoephedrine and ibuprofen)

The Dark Side of Pseudoephedrine: Potential for Abuse and Addiction

While pseudoephedrine is generally safe when used as directed, it has a potential for abuse that cannot be ignored. Can pseudoephedrine be addictive? When used properly, pseudoephedrine does not pose a significant risk of addiction. However, when misused or taken in high doses, it can produce stimulant effects that may be appealing to those seeking a quick high.

The primary concern surrounding pseudoephedrine abuse is not its direct use as a recreational drug, but rather its role as a precursor in the illegal production of methamphetamine. This connection has led to strict regulations on the sale and purchase of pseudoephedrine products.

Signs of Pseudoephedrine Abuse

What are the indicators that someone might be abusing pseudoephedrine? While normal use of the drug can cause mild side effects, chronic abuse may lead to more severe symptoms:

• Increased energy and restlessness
• Irritability
• Red eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Dilated pupils
• Insomnia
• Weight loss

It’s crucial to note that attempts to purchase large quantities of pseudoephedrine products may indicate either personal abuse or intent to use the drug for illegal methamphetamine production.

The Methamphetamine Connection: Why Pseudoephedrine is Heavily Regulated

The link between pseudoephedrine and methamphetamine production is at the heart of the drug’s strict regulation. How exactly is pseudoephedrine used to make methamphetamine? With relatively simple chemical modifications, pseudoephedrine can be converted into methamphetamine, a highly addictive and dangerous illegal drug.

This connection gained widespread public awareness through popular media, such as the TV show “Breaking Bad,” which depicted the illegal production of methamphetamine using pseudoephedrine as a key ingredient. While this portrayal was fictional, it reflected a very real and serious issue facing law enforcement and public health officials.

The Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act

In response to the growing methamphetamine crisis, the U.S. government took action to limit access to pseudoephedrine. The Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act, passed in 2006, implemented strict controls on the sale of pseudoephedrine and related compounds. What changes did this act introduce?

• Removal of pseudoephedrine products from open shelves
• Requirement for behind-the-counter storage
• Mandatory photo ID presentation for purchase
• Implementation of purchase logs
• Limits on the quantity that can be purchased

These regulations apply not only to Sudafed but to all products containing pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, and ephedrine – common ingredients in cold medicines that can be used in methamphetamine production.

Navigating the Purchase of Pseudoephedrine Products

How can consumers legally obtain pseudoephedrine products? Despite the stringent regulations, pseudoephedrine remains available to those who need it for legitimate medical purposes. In most states, you can purchase pseudoephedrine products without a prescription, but the process involves several steps:

1. Request the product from a pharmacist
2. Present a valid photo ID
3. Sign a log detailing the purchase
4. Adhere to quantity limits set by law

These measures are designed to prevent the bulk purchase of pseudoephedrine for illegal purposes while still allowing access for those who need it for cold and sinus relief.

The Medical Perspective: Proper Use and Alternatives

When used as directed, pseudoephedrine remains an effective treatment for nasal congestion and sinus pressure. However, given the potential for abuse and the stringent regulations surrounding its purchase, many consumers and healthcare providers are exploring alternatives.

What are some alternatives to pseudoephedrine for treating nasal congestion? Several options exist:

• Phenylephrine: An over-the-counter decongestant that doesn’t carry the same risks of abuse
• Nasal sprays: Oxymetazoline and other topical decongestants can provide quick relief
• Saline rinses: A natural way to clear nasal passages without medication
• Steam inhalation: Can help loosen mucus and provide temporary relief

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for individual needs, especially for those with chronic sinus issues or other health concerns.

The Broader Impact: Public Health and Law Enforcement Challenges

The regulation of pseudoephedrine has had far-reaching effects beyond individual consumers. How has the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act impacted public health and law enforcement efforts?

On the positive side, restrictions on pseudoephedrine access have contributed to a decrease in domestic methamphetamine production. Many small-scale “meth labs” that relied on easily obtainable pseudoephedrine have been shut down. However, this success has been partially offset by an increase in methamphetamine imported from other countries, particularly Mexico.

Law enforcement agencies have had to adapt their strategies, shifting focus from local production to international drug trafficking networks. Meanwhile, public health officials continue to grapple with methamphetamine addiction and its devastating effects on individuals and communities.

The Role of Pharmacists and Healthcare Providers

Pharmacists play a crucial role in the regulated distribution of pseudoephedrine products. They are often the first line of defense against potential abuse, tasked with monitoring purchases and identifying suspicious patterns. Healthcare providers, too, have had to adjust their prescribing practices, balancing the need for effective symptom relief with awareness of the potential for misuse.

The Future of Pseudoephedrine Regulation and Research

As the landscape of drug abuse and addiction continues to evolve, so too must the approaches to regulating substances like pseudoephedrine. What developments might we see in the coming years regarding pseudoephedrine regulation and research?

• Improved tracking systems: Enhanced digital monitoring of pseudoephedrine purchases across state lines
• Development of abuse-deterrent formulations: Research into new forms of the drug that are more difficult to convert into methamphetamine
• Exploration of new alternatives: Ongoing studies into novel decongestants that provide relief without the risks associated with pseudoephedrine
• Public education initiatives: Increased efforts to inform consumers about the proper use of pseudoephedrine and the dangers of its misuse

The challenge moving forward will be to maintain access to effective treatments for those who need them while continuing to combat the illegal production and abuse of methamphetamine.

Understanding the Complexities: Balancing Medical Needs and Public Safety

The story of pseudoephedrine illustrates the complex interplay between medical treatment, substance abuse, and public policy. How can society balance the legitimate medical uses of pseudoephedrine with the need to prevent its misuse and illegal conversion into methamphetamine?

This balance requires ongoing collaboration between healthcare providers, pharmacists, law enforcement agencies, and policymakers. It also calls for continued research into safer alternatives and more effective treatment options for both congestion and methamphetamine addiction.

Ultimately, addressing the challenges surrounding pseudoephedrine abuse and methamphetamine production requires a multifaceted approach that combines regulation, education, and innovation. By staying informed and vigilant, both healthcare professionals and consumers can play a role in ensuring the safe and appropriate use of pseudoephedrine while supporting efforts to combat illegal drug production and abuse.

As research progresses and policies evolve, it’s crucial for individuals to stay informed about the proper use of pseudoephedrine and other decongestants. Consumers should always follow dosage instructions, be aware of potential side effects, and consult with healthcare providers when in doubt. By doing so, we can help ensure that these medications continue to provide relief to those who need them while minimizing the risks of abuse and illegal drug production.

What You Need to Know

Pseudoephedrine is a common ingredient found in many cold and sinus medications. While it is highly effective at reducing uncomfortable nasal congestion and sinus pressure, this drug also has a dark side. Here’s what you need to know about pseudoephedrine abuse and how it’s related to the illegal production and abuse of methamphetamine.

What is Pseudoephedrine?

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that is used to treat nasal congestion and sinus pressure due to the common cold and other infections. It is also a substance that is chemically related to amphetamine.

It works by narrowing blood vessels to decrease swelling and congestion in the nasal passages.¹ Pseudoephedrine does not cure infections or expedite recovery. Instead, it temporarily treats symptoms to make the user more comfortable.

Pseudoephedrine is produced in liquid form as well as tablets (regular, 12-hour extended release, and 24-hour extended release) and comes alone or mixed with other medications in combination drugs.

When used as intended, pseudoephedrine is a very safe drug that effectively reduces nasal congestion and sinus pressure. It does not pose a risk for addiction when it is used correctly.

On the other hand, if the tablets are crushed and/or snorted or the ingredients of pseudoephedrine drugs like Sudafed are altered in any way, users may suffer negative side effects or become addicted.

Pseudoephedrine Products

There are many different pseudoephedrine products on the market and most cold and flu decongestant drugs contain pseudoephedrine. Here are some common brand names of pseudoephedrine products and pseudoephedrine combination drugs in the U.S.:

• Genaphed (pseudoephedrine)
• Seudotabs (pseudoephedrine)
• Silfedrine (pseudoephedrine)
• Sudafed Congestion (pseudoephedrine)
• Sudodrin (pseudoephedrine)
• SudoGest (pseudoephedrine)
• Suphedrine (pseudoephedrine)
• Nasofed (pseudoephedrine)
• Entex (guaifenesin/phenylephrine)
• Zyrtec-D (pseudoephedrine and cetirizine)
• Claritin-D (loratadine and pseudoephedrine)
• Advil Cold and Sinus (pseudoephedrine and ibuprofen)²

Is Pseudoephedrine Addictive?

Although pseudoephedrine is not addictive on its own, when it is used improperly it can be. In high doses, it can cause stimulant effects, which may be appealing to drug abusers looking for a quick high. At one point in time, it was available over-the-counter, which made it a prime drug of abuse and experimentation for teens.³

However, pseudoephedrine is most often abused to make meth and bath salts. Fans of the popular show “Breaking Bad” know very well that it only takes a slight chemical modification to use pseudoephedrine or Sudafed to make the illegal drug methamphetamine.

For this reason, Sudafed was taken off pharmacy shelves in 2006. Now, to legally purchase it, you have to find the pharmacist, provide a photo ID, and sign a log. These regulations are a result of the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act and are designed to prevent pseudoephedrine abuse and the illegal production of meth.⁴

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Pseudoephedrine Abuse: Side Effects and Symptoms

Pseudoephedrine or Sudafed causes some normal side effects when it is used to treat nasal congestion. Common side effects of pseudoephedrine use include:

• Restlessness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Headache⁵

When it is abused and used in significantly large amounts, pseudoephedrine can produce effects like:

• Feelings of euphoria
• Increased alertness and energy
• A pleasant tingling sensation

Negative side effects of chronic pseudoephedrine abuse may include:

• Irritability
• Increased energy
• Red eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Dilated pupils
• Problems sleeping
• Weight loss

While pseudoephedrine may be abused on its own, the primary concern regarding pseudoephedrine abuse is that it can be easily altered to make meth. Someone who attempts to buy large quantities of pseudoephedrine products may be abusing it or trying to use it to make meth.

Why is Over-the-Counter Pseudoephedrine Banned?

As mentioned above, pseudoephedrine can be easily altered to make meth. Although pseudoephedrine used to be much more easily accessible and was available over-the-counter, as illegal methamphetamine and abuse increased in the U.S., the federal government tightened restrictions on the sale of this drug.⁶

Once the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act was passed in 2006, pseudoephedrine was removed from the shelves and placed behind the counter, where only a pharmacist could access it. The law didn’t just apply to Sudafed. It affected all products that contain pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, and ephedrine, which are common ingredients found in cold medicines.

In most states, you can buy pseudoephedrine products without a prescription, but you have to request the drug from a pharmacist, show a photo ID, and sign a log that tracks your purchase. There are also strict limitations on how much you can buy per month.⁷ Although the sale and purchases of pseudoephedrine in the U.S. are heavily regulated, it is not listed as a controlled substance.

Will Pseudoephedrine Show on a Drug Test?

Drug tests can be used to prove recent use of substances like marijuana, heroin, or prescription drugs. If you use medication that contains pseudoephedrine, there is a chance that the pseudoephedrine will produce a false positive for amphetamines.⁸ If this happens to you, typically, the lab can use another type of drug test called a GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry), which is much less likely to produce a false positive.

Help for Pseudoephedrine Abuse and Meth Addiction

Pseudoephedrine isn’t addictive on its own, but someone who abuses it by using it to make meth may have a meth addiction. Meth is a powerful stimulant and addiction to this drug is difficult to overcome, though not impossible.

Pseudoephedrine abuse or meth abuse may be symptoms of a deeper problem, such as trauma, emotional distress, physical abuse, or some other destructive force in a person’s life. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, you’re not alone and the professionals at Briarwood Detox Center are here to help you get sober and begin addressing those issues.

We provide safe, comfortable, inpatient medical detox in Houston and Austin with clinical care that includes individual and group therapy. Our detox programs are individually designed to help you overcome your substance abuse problems, whether you’re misusing pseudoephedrine products, meth, or both.

Admitting you need help is the first step to living a life in recovery. Call (888) 857-0557today to speak with an admissions representative and get help for your pseudoephedrine or meth addiction.

References:

1. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4908-821/pseudoephedrine-oral/pseudoephedrine-sustained-release-oral/details
2. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682619.html
3. https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(11)63394-6/fulltext
4. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/legal-requirements-sale-and-purchase-drug-products-containing-pseudoephedrine-ephedrine-and
5. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-pseudoephedrine-1192197
6. https://www. acsh.org/news/2017/09/12/why-sudafed-behind-counter-meth-chemistry-lesson-11812
7. https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/sudafed#restrictions
8. https://www.duiillinois.com/can-drug-test-lead-false-positive/

Pseudoephedrine | Abuse, Detox, Withdrawal, Treatment

• What is Pseudoephedrine?
• Slang for Pseudoephedrine
• How Common Is Pseudoephedrine Abuse and Addiction?
• What Are the Side Effects of Pseudoephedrine Abuse?
• What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Pseudoephedrine Addiction and Abuse?
• What Are Pseudoephedrine Withdrawal Symptoms?
• Is Pseudoephedrine Detox Effective?
• Treatment for Pseudoephedrine Addiction
• Inpatient Drug Rehab vs. Outpatient Drug Rehab for Pseudoephedrine Addiction
• Continued Care Options for Pseudoephedrine Treatment
  • Sober Living Programs
  • Aftercare Programs

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant drug that is sold under the brand name Sudafed. It works by shrinking the blood vessels in the nasal passages to clear the nose of congestion.¹ It is an active ingredient in many cold medicines and although many of those medicines used to be available over-the-counter, most are now only available for purchase behind the pharmacy counter.

Although consumers can purchase some medications containing pseudoephedrine without a prescription, the FDA has greatly restricted access to the drug by limiting the amount people can buy per month, requiring a photo ID, and making each person sign a log when they purchase it.² These restrictions are due to the high likelihood of pseudoephedrine being abused.

When used properly, pseudoephedrine is not addictive, but when it is abused, it carries many risks. Pseudoephedrine is most commonly misused by converting it into an ingredient that is used to make methamphetamine or bath salts. Some people may also misuse it as an illegal stimulant to increase alertness or enhance physical performance but it is most dangerous when it is used to make meth.

People who use pseudoephedrine to make meth and get high typically smoke it, snort it, or inject the powder form of meth after dissolving it in water.

Ever since the U.S. government set restrictions on pseudoephedrine in 2005, meth lab incidents around the country have decreased.³ Many drug manufacturers have also changed the ingredients of their products to exclude pseudoephedrine, such as by replacing it with alternatives like phenylephrine in an effort to curb abuse.

Regardless, people who previously abused pseudoephedrine may be more likely to experiment with other drugs to find a similar high instead of giving up the substance abuse altogether.

The following terms are street names or slang for pseudoephedrine:

• Chalk
• Crank
• Meth
• Speed

Teens may be more likely to abuse pseudoephedrine and a common practice is to combine it with alcohol. This practice is very dangerous and may result in overdose because the stimulating effects of pseudoephedrine can dampen the effects of alcohol, making a person more likely to drink more than they normally would.

The most common form of pseudoephedrine abuse is using it to make methamphetamine. This involves chemically altering the pseudoephedrine into an ingredient that can be used in the meth “cooking” process. While the process of converting pseudoephedrine to make meth is fairly simple, it’s also extremely dangerous and can cause explosions or fires.⁴

Misusing pseudoephedrine in this way is extremely addictive and meth can cause serious physical and psychological side effects that can last for weeks, months, years, or even a lifetime.

Although the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act has made pseudoephedrine more difficult to acquire, the abuse of methamphetamine is still rampant in the U.S. and contributes to the number of ER visits, law enforcement resources used, crimes committed, and serious health problems plaguing Americans.

Short-term effects of pseudoephedrine abuse may include:

• Euphoria
• Increased alertness
• Increased energy
• Pleasant tingling sensation
• Irritability
• Red eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Dilated pupils

Long-term effects of pseudoephedrine abuse may include:

• Weight loss
• Problems sleeping
• Tolerance
• Dependence
• Addiction

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In the past, teens were likely to abuse pseudoephedrine because it was cheap, and available over-the-counter via drugs like Sudafed. However, since access to pseudoephedrine has been restricted, teens are now more likely to turn to other more easily accessible substances they can abuse to get high, such as herbal drugs, over-the-counter drugs like DXM, or prescription drugs they get from friends.

If someone is misusing pseudoephedrine or is addicted to meth that is made using pseudoephedrine, he or she may display some of the following signs:

• Isolating from family and friends
• Purchasing large amounts of cold and flu medication containing pseudoephedrine
• Displaying sudden changes in appearance, hygiene, and/or social circles
• Losing interest in regular hobbies and activities

Although there is no scientific evidence that pseudoephedrine produces withdrawal symptoms, some users may experience pseudoephedrine withdrawal symptoms that are similar to stimulant withdrawal, such as:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Lethargy
• Extreme sleepiness
• Increased appetite
• Vivid nightmares
• Nasal congestion
• Drug cravings

Although none of these pseudoephedrine withdrawal symptoms are life-threatening, stimulant withdrawal can be very uncomfortable and the intense discomfort can make it very difficult to stay sober.

There is no formal withdrawal management or treatment for the abuse of pseudoephedrine or cold medicines, but a medically-assisted pseudoephedrine detox program can be extremely helpful. These structured detox programs provide treatment for individual pseudoephedrine withdrawal symptoms such as depression. This gives clients the chance to relax and rest while they receive additional clinical support from addiction treatment professionals.

Although there is no designated treatment process for people who are abusing cold medicines or are addicted to pseudoephedrine, there are several ways addiction treatment can help people who are ready to get sober. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA):

• Individuals should receive treatment right away
• Individuals should receive treatment for both mental health issues and the substance use disorder
• Treatment professionals should use a combination of medication and evidence-based therapy
• Treatment professionals should encourage family members to be actively involved in a person’s recovery
• Treatment professionals should seek to ensure that the person remains in treatment for an adequate length of time⁵

After completing a pseudoephedrine detox program, people who are struggling with substance abuse may greatly benefit from also completing a long-term rehab program that lasts at least 90 days.

During pseudoephedrine rehab, clients will work closely with addiction treatment professionals and their peers to do the following things:

• Learn about the disease of addiction
• Work through a recovery program curriculum such as the 12-Step Program
• Gain life skills
• Learn how to cope with cravings, challenging life circumstances, triggers, and prevent relapse
• Heal both physically and emotionally.

Staff help clients achieve these objectives by providing various types of behavioral therapy, individual counseling, group counseling, educational lectures, family therapy, social activities for rehab clients, and more.

If you are considering going to drug rehab for pseudoephedrine addiction, inpatient rehab and outpatient rehab are two common types of treatment. While both are different, each provides quality, comprehensive care. The chart below offers a quick comparison of these two types of pseudoephedrine treatment programs.

Your doctor or an addiction treatment professional can help you determine which type of pseudoephedrine rehab is best for you depending on your needs, life circumstances, and financial ability. Depending on the program, clients usually have several different options to pay for rehab, such as:

• Health insurance benefits
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Financed healthcare loans
• Credit cards
• Crowdfunding
• HSA funds

Pseudoephedrine treatment is an investment, but if you commit to it fully, it’s one that will change your life and the lives of those you love for the better.

There are several different types of pseudoephedrine treatment support programs that clients can take advantage of after they complete a rehab program. These additional services are designed to provide well-rounded support to prevent relapse and gradually ease the client back into everyday life and an independent lifestyle in recovery.

Sober Living Programs

Sober living programs are designed to help detox and rehab alumni adjust to a sober life with the continued support of staff and sober peers. Sober living homes come in all shapes and sizes but the primary goal of transitional housing is to act as a bridge between life in rehab and independent sober life.

Sober living programs offer support by providing clients with recovery services such as:

• Regular drug and alcohol testing
• Tiered recovery programming
• Educational planning
• Employment assistance
• Volunteer placement services
• Peer-monitoring programs
• Family involvement in the sober living program

The cost of a sober living program will vary greatly, depending on the type of program, the location and amenities of the sober living home itself, and the type of recovery support services offered. However, clients often pay one monthly payment like they would for rent.

Aftercare Programs

Aftercare programs for people in recovery offer yet another layer of support and an opportunity to engage in one’s recovery journey. Aftercare programs consist of a series of outpatient group meetings at a designated location. These meetings are intended to be safe, supportive, and welcoming groups where clients can talk freely about their personal struggles in recovery as well as their successes.

Aftercare groups also provide excellent opportunities for clients to offer encouragement and advice to other people in recovery, work to improve their communication skills, and develop strong, healthy relationships that can continue to thrive long after addiction treatment is complete.

Pseudoephedrine abuse and addiction may seem impossible to overcome, but you can get sober and live the life that you want. There is help available when you’re ready and there are many different routes to recovery. Please call (512) 887-5034 to learn more about pseudoephedrine treatment options today.

References:

1. https://www.drugs.com/pseudoephedrine.html
2. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/legal-requirements-sale-and-purchase-drug-products-containing-pseudoephedrine-ephedrine-and
3. http://www.nascsa.org/PDF/psedoephedrineWhitepaper4.18.16.pdf
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3793278/
5. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/principles-effective-treatment

Nova Recovery Center offers a large range of substance abuse treatment services: detox, residential, outpatient and sober living.

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Ephedrine – Narko

Official names

Ephedrine
Ephedrine

Substance type

Stimulants

Ephedrine belongs to the group of stimulants. It is of natural origin and is mainly obtained from various species of the ephedra or Ephedra plant. It got its name, first of all, from the Chinese herb ephedra, or Ephedra sinica, which grows in Asia. Now this plant grows most of all in Mongolia and China, but ephedrine is called the oldest psychostimulant of mankind, rather because ephedra was found on a 50,000-year-old Neanderthal grave located in Iraq. ¹

Ephedrine is used as a nasal spray, tablets and liquid. It is usually swallowed, but also sniffed or injected. Ephedrine is also used in various types of medicines.

The impact with short -term and prolonged use ^{2 3 4}

Ephedrine’s use increases blood pressure, causes heart rhythm disturbance, which in turn can lead to cardiac arrest. Long-term use of ephedrine can cause stroke and seizures.

Like other stimulants, ephedrine can cause insomnia and nervousness, irritability, paranoia, or aggression. Large doses or long-term use of ephedrine can lead to weight loss, high blood pressure, hallucinations, seizures, cerebral hemorrhage, and dangerous heart problems, including palpitations, heart rhythm and circulation problems.

Action of ephedrine:

• euphoria and excitement
• lack of appetite
• burst of energy, increased motor activity
• reduction of fatigue and drowsiness
• irritability
• nervousness
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• hallucinations may appear
• shiver
• increase or decrease in blood pressure
• cardiac arrhythmias
• convulsions

Side effects and health risks

Ephedrine stimulates the brain, increases heart rate, increases blood pressure, dilates bronchi, improves metabolism and raises body temperature.

The use of ephedrine increases the likelihood of:

• cardiac arrhythmias
• liver lesions
• stroke
• heart attack
• convulsions
• coma

The use of ephedrine during pregnancy is not recommended unless there is a direct medical indication. The substance may increase the heart rate and cause abnormal heart rhythms in the fetus. Also, the substance is contraindicated if the mother’s blood pressure is above 130/80 mm Hg. The use of ephedrine while breastfeeding is not recommended.

Addiction and Withdrawal

Since ephedrine is naturally occurring, people often think it is a safe alternative to other stimulants. Therefore, it causes less sense of danger, and often people do not know that the substance is quickly addictive.

Ephedrine reduces appetite, increases concentration and endurance. Therefore, they are often abused (athletes, students, truck drivers, losing weight, etc.).

Withdrawal symptoms:

• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• irritability
• uncontrollable shivering
• cardiac arrhythmias
• paranoia and depression

Signs of poisoning and overdose

Symptoms of ephedrine poisoning:

• fever
• confusion
• palpitations
• shortness of breath
• loss of consciousness
• muscle spasms or cramps
• dizziness
• hallucinations

In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention, as an overdose of ephedrine can be fatal.

¹ Harro, J. Uimastite ajastu. Tartu: Ülikooli Kirjastus; 2017.
² Tarabar, A. F., Hoffman, R. S., Nelson, L. S., Jacoby, S. Ephedrine-Induced Cardiomyopathy. Journal of Toxicology – Clinical Toxicology 2002; 41(4):544.
³ Burkhart, K. Intravenous Propranolol Reverses Hypertension After Sympathomimetic Overdose: Two Case Reports. Journal of Toxicology – Clinical Toxicology 1992; 30(1):109-14.
⁴ Sakuragi ,T., Yasumoto, M., Higa, K., Nitahara, K. Inadvertent Intravenous Administration of a High Dose of Ephedrine. Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia 2004; 18(1):121-4.

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Alcohol and drugs – Alkoinfo.ee

If a person does not admit the problem himself, it is difficult to send him for treatment. There are certain criteria for referral to compulsory treatment.

Psychiatric Care Act, § 11. Involuntary and Unavoidable Psychiatric Care, states that
will (hereinafter referred to as compulsory treatment). ) only if the following circumstances occur together:
1) the person has a severe mental disorder that limits his ability to understand or control his behavior;
2) by not being treated in a hospital, the person endangers the life, health or safety of himself or others due to a mental disorder;
3) other psychiatric care is not enough.

In case of delirium, an ambulance can be called. A person is admitted to the hospital if he is dangerous, and even then he can be kept there for 48 hours without a court order. Just because a person drinks, one cannot treat him against his will. Unfortunately, this is the bitter truth. Often, simply spending some time sober in a hospital is not enough to treat an alcohol use disorder (dependence). It is a lifelong condition that requires long-term treatment, sometimes even years, before a person can remain sober. Even if your family member sobers up, it takes willpower to stay sober. Here we come to a person’s own intrinsic motivation, which is the basis for maintaining sobriety in the future. You can do your best, but if the family member does not take responsibility and sees the need to change their drinking, the help provided will only be temporary and will not produce the desired result.
To increase motivation and understand the severity of the problem, you can talk to a family member who drinks about how you and others feel about his drinking and how it affects you. This should be done in a calm tone, avoiding accusations, nit-picking, threats and moralizing. You must speak when a family member is sober. Try to choose a time and place where you can talk calmly and have enough time. If he notices the attack, he may tell you that this is not a problem for him, or he may act aggressively and make excuses. Unfortunately, you cannot force a member of your family to go to treatment. However, you can try to motivate him. You can also read about how to talk to him about it and express your concerns here.

If a family member does not want help, you can take care of yourself and save yourself.