Ephedrine is an ingredient used in certain over-the-counter medications to treat congestion and asthma. It's a stimulant, extracted from an Asiatic shrub called Ma Huang, and is often found in herbal ecstasy products such as Cloud 9 and Nirvana Plus, although its effects are closer to those of speed.

What are the effects of ephedrine?

• Speeds up the heart rate and increases blood pressure.
• Dilates the bronchioles in the lungs, making breathing easier.
• Users report feeling more alert and focused.
• Other effects on the body can include shivers down the spine and sensitive skin.

What risk does taking ephedrine have?

• Nausea, a dry mouth and restlessness are common.
• At high doses, users can experience anxiety, heart palpitations, vomiting, tremors and insomnia.
• Long-term recreational misuse has been linked to strokes and heart attack.

Ephedrine and the law:

• Ephedrine is not currently classified as a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act, so no penalties apply for possession or use of small amounts.
• Selling ephedrine as an unlicensed preparation would risk prosecution under the Medicines Act.

Slang terms for ephedrine:

Mini-Thins, trucker speed.

If you are planning to take ephedrine:

Think about the risks before using ephedrine without medical supervision, especially if you have a heart condition or diabetes.

Updated: 06/06/2011