Mixed Action Adrenergic Agonists

Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine directly stimulate the release of norepinephrine from nerves and stimulates α and β receptors.  Less potent than epinephrine but with similar overall effects.  Both drugs are poorly metabolized by monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), which results in long half-lives.  

Class Drugs

• Ephedrine

• Pseudoephedrine

Class Mechanism of Action

• Release norepinephrine from nerve endings

• Direct stimulation of alpha and beta receptors

Class Adverse Effects

• Tachycardia

• Arrhythmia (Ephedrine banned in herbal supplements by FDA)

• Tremor

• Anxiety

• Hypertension

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Ephedrine	Anesthesia related hypotension	Banned as supplement by FDA due to risk of life-threatening cardiovascular reactions; Improves alertness, and athletic performance; Causes bronchodilation	"FedEx" "Rind"
Pseudoephedrine	Nasal and sinus congestion	Used in production of methamphetamine	"Pseudo Sue" "FedEx" "Rind"