Ephedrine injection

July 17, 2018

Ephedrine injection

What is this medicine?

EPHEDRINE (e FED rin) injection is used to treat low blood pressure in patients who received certain types of anesthesia, underwent a specific type of surgery, or received an overdose of a drug that can lower blood pressure. It is also sometimes used to treat symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or other lung disease.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin, into a muscle or into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • anxiety

  • chest pain

  • confusion

  • dizziness, or fainting spells

  • excessive sweating or inability to cool down after strenuous exercise

  • fast or irregular heartbeat, palpitations

  • hallucinations

  • increased blood pressure

  • pain or difficulty passing urine

  • rapid or troubled breathing

  • severe, persistent, or worsening headache

  • tremor

  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • difficulty sleeping

  • dry mouth

  • headache

  • loss of appetite

  • nausea, stomach upset

  • restlessness or nervousness

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, ergoloid mesylates, methysergide, or ergot-type medication

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

  • medicines for colds and breathing difficulties

  • sibutramine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • digoxin

  • diuretics

  • medicines for heart disease or high blood pressure

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

  • blood vessel disease

  • diabetes

  • glaucoma

  • heart disease

  • high blood pressure

  • over active thyroid

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to ephedrine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018