Ephedra Side Effects

Ephedra Side effects

As one of the strongest herbal energizers -- lasting in the body six to 10 hours -- many athletes and active individuals are drawn to Ephedra. The ephedra side effects it has are similar to adrenaline, or epinephrine, a hormone secreted by the adrenal gland and associated with reactions to stress, including threatening and exciting conditions.

Side effects of ephedra include increased and irregular heartbeat, anxiety, allergic reaction, stroke, vomiting, insomnia and psychosis. Proof of linkage between the herb and heart attacks initiated its prohibition.

"Because of liability and recent discrepancies with the herb, many supplement companies are hesitant to begin further production," Inserra said. "At this point, we are not sure when and if we will be putting it back on the shelves."

Leading up to the ban, ephedra was suspected to have attributed 150 deaths, including 23-year-old Boston Orioles pitcher Steve Bechler, who died of heatstroke in 2003. Though a number of deaths have been caused primarily by abuse of the herb, previous research suggests that 20,000 Americans die from aspirin and aspirin substitute abuse each year.

"Compared to other over-the-counter drugs, in proper dosage, ephedra is safe to use," Visser said. "Most drugs increase risks of negative side effects when abused."

NCAA standards uphold the banning of ephedra usage in sports. Athletes found with traces of ephedra in their system can face consequences such as suspension and one-year's probation from sport participation. The NFL was the first sports league to ban the supplement in 2001. Research suggests a relationship between ephedra and seizures, strokes and ultimately, death.

Ephedra is natural but powerful: Follow label instructions.

College player Rashidi Wheeler of Northwestern University allegedly died following usage of an ephedra based drink and supplement taken prior to a workout.

"Athletes are discouraged from using it because it depletes the body of fluids and increases cardiovascular effects," Visser said. "This proposes greater risk for athletes who often work at high capacities."

 

The supplement industry was forced to remove ephedra from their product lines. Stores were required to remove products containing ephedra from their shelves. Now that the ban has been lifted, companies are still hesitant to start further production.

Elimination of ephedra has not decreased consumption of stimulants. Caffeine, yohimbe, gaurana seed extract and various alternatives have taken its place.

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