Ephedrine Flashcards
1
Q
What are the uses of ephedrine?
A
- hypotension
- nasal decongestant
- nocturnal enuresis
2
Q
What is the MOA of ephedrine?
A
- indirect sympathomimetic (causes release of noradrenaline from sympathetic nerve terminals)
- direct stimulation of alpha and beta receptors
- inhibits MAO
3
Q
What is the absorption/distribution of ephedrine?
A
- well absorbed PO/IM/SC
- half time 4 hrs
4
Q
What are the CVS effects of ephedrine?
A
- increased HR, CO, BP, coronary artery blood flow
- increased myocardial O2 consumption
5
Q
What are the RS effects of ephedrine?
A
- bronchodilation
- Increased RR
6
Q
What are the GI effects of ephedrine?
A
- decreased renal blood flow
- decreased GFR
7
Q
How is ephedrine metabolised/excreted?
A
- minimal hepatic metabolism
- 65% excreted unchanged in urine
8
Q
What is ephedrine?
A
- alpha and beta agonist
- clear colourless solution 30mg/ml
- given as boluses of 3mg IV, titrate to effect
- tachyphylaxis occurs as NA stores are depleted after 30mg given
9
Q
What interacts with ephedrine to precipitate a hypertensive crisis?
A
MAOIs
