Ephedrine is used to relieve nasal congestion. It decongests and reduces the swelling of nasal passages to help you breathe more easily.
Use Ephedrine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Ephedrine is available as a solution in nasal drop or as a solution in nasal spray.
How to use nasal drops:
- Blow your nose gently to clean your nostrils before using the drops.
- Hold the dropper straight and upright, placing the tip of the dropper into your nostril.
- Instil the required dose into the nostril. Keep your head tilted for a few minutes to allow the medicine to spread into the nose.
- Repeat steps to instil into the other nostril.
- After each use, wipe and cap the nasal drops.
How to use nasal spray:
- If you are using the nasal spray for the first time, remove the cap and press the pump a few times until you produce an even spray.
- Shake the bottle well.
- Blow your nose gently before using the spray.
- With your head upright, spray the medicine into the affected nostril and inhale at the same time.
- Wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and cap the nasal spray after using it.
Make sure you know how to use your nasal drops or spray. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not share your nasal spray or drops with others as it could spread infection.
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease
- high blood pressure
- overactive thyroid disease
- overexcitability
- phaeochromocytoma (a tumour of the adrenal gland)
- closed-angle glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
- difficulty passing urine
- recently had nasal or sinus surgery/operation
- taking or using other nasal decongestant medicines
as Ephedrine may not be suitable for you.
Do not use Ephedrine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine that is used to treat depression known as monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Do not use Ephedrine with certain medicines used to treat heart disease or hyperactivity disorders.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- asthma
- prostate enlargement
- diabetes
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Ephedrine may cause any of the following side effects: nausea, vomiting, headache, dry mouth, thirst, sweating, drooling, loss of appetite, muscle weakness, restlessness, irritability, trembling, palpitations, fast or irregular heartbeat, hallucinations, and difficulty passing urine.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not use Ephedrine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Do not use Ephedrine if you are taking or using any other similar decongestant medicines.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for heart disease e.g. quinidine, digoxin, guanethidine
- methylphenidate (medicine to treat hyperactivity disorders)
- medicines for colds e.g. phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine
- medicines to block pain and sensation e.g. halothane, cyclopropane
- ergotamine (medicine to treat migraine)
- oxytocin (medicine used to induce labour and prevent bleeding)
- theophylline (asthma medicine)
- dexamethasone (anti-inflammatory medicine)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Ephedrine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Avoid caffeine-containing beverages such as coffee, tea and certain soft drinks.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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