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.