Ma Huang

In the past, ma huang was commonly used as a weight loss pill. However, it was banned in the United States because it caused dangerous and even life-threatening side effects, such as heart attacks, strokes, and seizures. There is no dose of ma huang that is considered safe and effective. If you take too much of this substance, be sure to seek immediate medical attention.

 

What Is Ma Huang?

Ma huang (also known as ephedra) 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. Ma huang is still allowed in traditional Chinese medicine and in food products, such as tea.
 
(Click What Is Ma Huang Used For? for more information.)
 

Does Ma Huang Causes Side Effects? 

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

Dosing Information

Currently, there is no established dose of ma huang that is considered safe and effective (see Ma Huang Dosing for more information).
 

Drug Interactions

Ma huang can interact with a number of different medications (see Drug Interactions With Ma Huang).
 

Is Ma Huang Safe?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that ma huang is not safe for use. This product may cause many serious problems, such as
 
In addition to the usual risks, using ma huang may be of particular concern during pregnancy or breastfeeding (see Ephedra and Pregnancy and Ephedra and Breastfeeding). While the risks of taking ma huang outweigh the potential benefits for all people, this is especially true for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
 
(Click Is Ma Huang Safe? for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

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

How Does Ma Huang Work?

The active ingredient of ma huang 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 the potentially dangerous side effects.
 

Is It Effective?

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

Is Ma Huang Still Available?

Ma huang has been banned in the United States, and the ban is still in place, despite what you may have read on the Internet. Despite this, you may be able to buy ma huang 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;