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Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine: Derived from
the plant Ephedra Sinica, Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine are Alkaloidal
Amines that occurs in several isometric forms the most important being ephedrine
and pseudoephedrine.
Also known as Ma Huang in China this plant has been a
cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. The two alkaloidal
amines found in the plant (ephedrine and pseudoephedrine) is the basis of
several illegal amphetamine drugs in the West where it is mostly controlled and
restricted to conventional pharmaceutical use (as nasal decongestants and
bronchial dilators).
Ephedrine is used in the treatment of colds, influenza,
asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, allergic conditions, rhinitis and low blood
pressure.
Because ephedrine is a vasoconstrictor it is
contraindicated for hypertension, angina and other cardiac conditions as well as
pregnant women and people with hyperthyroid.
Do not take ephedrine with any other medication without
consulting your doctor.
Amines: Amines are derived from ammonia by
replacing one or more hydrogen atoms with carbon atoms. Amines are basic
synthesised derivatives of ammonium chloride, a natural salt.
Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine (derived from Ephedra Sinica -Ma Huang) are possibly the best
known amines and are widely used for allergies that affect the respiratory
tract. Mescaline is another amine that is known
for its hallucinogenic effect and the less known Muscarine is a toxic amine
found in many toxic mushrooms. |
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