Ephedrine

Drug Info

• Common Name: Ephedrine®
• Drug Type: Nervous system stimulant
• Used For: Urinary incontenence, Nasal congestion
• Administered: 25 mg or 50 mg capsules, Injectable
• How Dispensed: Prescription only
• FDA Approved: No

General Description

Ephedrine is commonly given to pets to help control urinary incontinence. It may also be used to treat nasal congestion. It stimulates certain receptors of the nervous system that have many effects on the body.

How It Works

Ephedrine works by doing a number of things. It stimulates the alpha1 and beta 1 adrenoreceptors and promotes the release of norepinephrine. It also stimulates the sympathetic system part of the nervous system, which — among other things — increases heart rate, opens up the lungs, and contracts the muscles at the beginning of the bladder.

Storage Information

Store in a tightly sealed container at room temperature away from heat and sunlight.

Missed Dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your pet two doses at once.

Side Effects and Drug Reactions

Ephedrine may result in these side effects:

• Loss of appetite
• Restlessness
• Aggression
• Increased heart rate
• High blood pressure

Ephedrine may react with these drugs:

• Anesthesia
• Beta blockers
• Amitraz
• Furazolidone
• Selegiline
• Neuromuscular blockers
• Rimadyl (and other NSAIDS)
• Sympathomimetic
• Tricyclin antidepressants
• Urinary alkalinizing agent
• Digoxin

USE CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO DIABETIC PETS OR PETS WITH HYPERTENSION, HYPERTHYROIDISM, HEART DISEASE, OR HEART RHYTHM ABNORMALITIES

USE CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO PREGNANT PETS - Ephedrine has not been extensively studied in pregnant pets