Ephedra — Safety & Interactions
Ma Huang · Herba Ephedrae
Contraindicated / High risk. Use only under practitioner supervision.
Contraindications
- Hypertension, arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, or prior stroke
- Anxiety, panic disorder, severe insomnia, or agitation
- Hyperthyroidism or uncontrolled glaucoma
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Concurrent use of stimulant-style supplements without direct medical supervision
Cautions
- Memorial Sloan Kettering warns that ephedra is a stimulant associated with heart attack, stroke, and severe blood-pressure effects.
- Ephedra-containing dietary supplements were banned by the FDA in the United States in 2004 because they presented an unreasonable risk of illness or injury.
- Even when Ma Huang has a legitimate traditional indication, it should be used only in trained formula-based practice and not as a self-prescribed energy, weight-loss, or performance product.
Drug Interactions
| Drug Class / Substrate | Mechanism | Severity | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAO inhibitors - risk of severe hypertensive or stimulant reactions | |||
| Other stimulants such as caffeine, amphetamine-like agents, or decongestants - additive cardiovascular and CNS effects | |||
| Beta-agonists, bronchodilators, or blood-pressure medications - unpredictable additive or opposing adrenergic effects | |||
Pregnancy
Not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified practitioner before any use.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal medicines, especially if you take prescription medications.