Journal Top Ten -- COLUMNS-Drugs & Supplements -- January 2004

1 Related Drug: Ephedra

Article: Ischemic Stroke After Using Over-the-Counter Products Containing Ephedra

photo-4Summary: Researchers estimated that at least one percent of the adult population in the United States have used products containing ephedra to lose weight, increase energy or bolster physical performance. The present study describes five patients who were evaluated at Indiana University Hospital for two years after suffering either ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes as a result of using ephedra-containing products. The authors concluded that herbal stimulant, like other sympathomimetic drugs such as phenylpropanolamine, predispose patients to both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes.

Journal: Journal of …