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Ephedra is a plant-based substance from the herb Ephedra sinica. Ephedra is used in many over-the-counter weight loss products. It is also used by some athletes who believe it can improve their performance. It may be combined with herbs containing caffeine (such as guarana) or with other substances in these supplements. Ephedra, also known as ma huang, has also been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat asthma or other lung problems. Because ephedra is marketed by companies as a supplement (not a drug to treat a disease), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate its use. However, many serious adverse (bad) effects related to ephedra use have been reported. Recent research has shown that use of ephedra appears to be more risky than use of other herbal preparations.

The March 26,2003, issue of JAMA includes an article about the efficacy and safety of ephedra . . . [Full Text of this Article]

EPHEDRINE



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