Ephedra

Ephedra was a popular weight loss pill, until it was banned in the United States due to safety concerns. This naturally occurring substance is chemically similar to amphetamines and may suppress the appetite and increase metabolism. Although ephedra may be effective for short-term weight loss, potentially dangerous side effects are possible. Some of these side effects may include heart attacks, strokes, or seizures.

 

What Is Ephedra?

Ephedra (also known as ma huang) is a naturally occurring substance that is used in traditional Chinese medicine. It was popular as a weight loss supplement, until it was banned in the United States due to safety concerns. Ephedra is still allowed in traditional Chinese medicine and in food products, such as tea.
 
(Click Ephedra Uses for more information.)
 

How Does It Work?

The active ingredient of ephedra is a chemical known as ephedrine (as well as several other similar chemicals). These ingredients are chemically similar to amphetamines and act as powerful stimulants. While these chemicals may suppress the appetite or increase metabolism (both of which can help with weight loss), they are also responsible for many of the pill's dangerous side effects.
 

Is It Effective?

There is some scientific evidence to suggest that ephedra may be effective for short-term weight loss. Unfortunately, while it may be effective, it is also potentially dangerous.
 
(Click Does Ephedra Work? for more information.)
 

Dosing Information

Currently, there is no established dose that is considered safe and effective (see Ephedra Dosage for more information).
 

Side Effects of Ephedra

Ephedra can cause several side effects, such as:
 
(Click Ephedra Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

Ephedra can interact with a number of different medications (see Ephedra Drug Interactions).
 

Is Ephedra Safe?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that ephedra is not safe for use. It can cause many serious problems, such as
 
While the risks of taking ephedra outweigh the potential benefits for all people, this is especially true for pregnant or breastfeeding women (see Ephedra and Pregnancy and Ephedra and Breastfeeding).
 
(Click Ephedra Safety for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

An overdose may cause life-threatening problems. Seek medical attention immediately if you think you have taken too much ephedra.
 
(Click Ephedra Overdose for more information.)
 

Is Ephedra Still Available?

Ephedra has been banned in the United States, and the ban is still in place, despite what you may read on the Internet. Even though ephedra is banned, you may be able to buy it over the Internet from foreign countries or from local companies that are illegally selling it. Unfortunately, it seems that some people are still desperate enough to lose weight that they will take a banned product and risk their health just to lose a few pounds.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;