Ephedrine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
💊
ephedrine
[ɛˈfɛdrɪn ]
Definition
medical use
Ephedrine is a medication used to treat certain types of breathing problems, such as asthma and bronchitis. It acts as a bronchodilator, helping to open up the airways in the lungs. Additionally, ephedrine is often used as a stimulant and in some cases, in the treatment of low blood pressure. It works by stimulating the adrenergic receptors in the body. Its effects include increased heart rate, improved blood circulation, and reduced airway resistance in the lungs.
Synonyms
bronchodilator, stimulant, vasopressor.
Examples of usage
- The doctor prescribed ephedrine for her asthma.
- Ephedrine can help alleviate symptoms of bronchitis.
- Athletes sometimes misuse ephedrine for its stimulating effects.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Medical Use
- Initially discovered in the early 20th century, it has been used to treat asthma and bronchitis.
- It is also utilized in emergency medicine to treat severe allergic reactions and respiratory distress.
- Apart from respiratory issues, it's sometimes used to alleviate low blood pressure during anesthesia.
Legal and Regulatory
- Ephedrine is a controlled substance in many countries due to its potential for misuse and production of methamphetamine.
- Regulations often require it to be sold behind the pharmacy counter, with limits on the amount one can purchase.
Cultural Impact
- It has appeared in popular culture as part of discussions around performance-enhancing drugs and weight loss products.
- Before the ban in several sports, it was sometimes taken by athletes to boost energy and performance.
Science and Pharmacology
- Ephedrine mimics the effects of adrenaline, stimulating the heart and increasing blood flow.
- Research has shown that it can enhance athletic performance but poses serious health risks if not used correctly.
- It acts as a bronchodilator, meaning it relaxes muscles in the airways, making breathing easier.
Origin of 'ephedrine'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'ephedrine' comes from 'ephedra', a plant traditionally used in herbal medicine.
- The suffix '-rine' often indicates substances related to chemicals or medicines.
The word 'ephedrine' derives from 'ephedra,' which refers to a genus of plants in the Ephedraceae family, known for their medicinal properties. Ephedra has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Chinese medicine where it is known as 'ma huang.' Ephedrine itself was first synthesized in the late 19th century by Japanese chemist Nagai Nagayoshi in 1885. Its chemical structure was later modified, leading to its use in various medicinal applications. The compound is classified as a sympathomimetic amine, which means it mimics the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. Over time, ephedrine became a vital pharmaceutical agent, making its way into medications used for respiratory issues and as a performance enhancer, despite ongoing concerns regarding misuse and potential side effects.