Table 4. Other Substances Added to Ephedra Products

Table 4. Other Substances Added to Ephedra Products

Herb

Effect

Caffeine
(kola nut, guarana)
- Augments the release of catecholamines, resulting in stimulation of CNS and CV system.
- Competitively antagonizes the receptors for adenosine causing vasoconstriction.

Citrus aurantium
Natural source of adrenergic agonists synephrine and octopamine which can elevate mean arterial pressure.

Willowbark
Reduces renal clearance of ephedrine due to salacin content.

Amino Acids
Reduces renal clearance of ephedrine.

Uva Ursi
↓ body fluids to increase likelihood of ↓ clearance of ephedrine.

Senna and Cascara
Anthraquinone glucosides which can increase ephedrine levels.

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Herb	Effect
Caffeine (kola nut, guarana)	- Augments the release of catecholamines, resulting in stimulation of CNS and CV system. - Competitively antagonizes the receptors for adenosine causing vasoconstriction.
Citrus aurantium	Natural source of adrenergic agonists synephrine and octopamine which can elevate mean arterial pressure.
Willowbark	Reduces renal clearance of ephedrine due to salacin content.
Amino Acids	Reduces renal clearance of ephedrine.
Uva Ursi	↓ body fluids to increase likelihood of ↓ clearance of ephedrine.
Senna and Cascara	Anthraquinone glucosides which can increase ephedrine levels.