Difference Between Ephedrine and Amphetamine

Ephedrine vs Amphetamine

Ephedrine and amphetamine are controlled substances clinically used for different functions. They are generally stimulants, meaning they raise everything in the body system including heart rate, blood pressure, alertness, and a lot more.

Ephedrine was discovered in Japan during 1885 by a Japanese chemist by the name of Nagayoshi Nagai. It is mainly extracted from different plants of the Ephedra genus. Amphetamine, on the other hand, is also a stimulant. It was discovered in 1887 by a Romanian chemist at Berlin, Germany. Currently, this drug is a prohibited and controlled drug because it was abused by people.

Ephedrine’s medical use in the Asian world, particularly in China, is indicated for bronchitis and asthma because it is a bronchodilator. Amphetamine, however, is a prime treatment for narcolepsy and ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. Ephedrine dilates the bronchioles in the lungs to ease the flow of breathing. It is also used to decrease weight by promoting excretion of fats. Certain body builders use this prior to competitions. US coast guards, on the other hand, use it as a remedy for seasickness by preventing nausea and dizziness. Amphetamine, on the other side, enhances certain neurotransmitters which make a human alert, awake, and in a sense of euphoria or happiness.

Ephedrine has many unwanted side effects including tachycardia, chest pain, and hypertension. Appetite is also suppressed leading to anorexia and vomiting. It may also cause acne. For the nervous system, it may cause insomnia, panic, restlessness, and so much more. The side effects of amphetamine use include nervousness, palpitations, headaches, anorexia, hypertension, and a lot more. Long-term use of this drug includes psychosis and suicidal ideations.

Summary:

1.

Both drugs are harmful if taken for the long term.
2.

Ephedrine is primarily used for lung illnesses, such as, bronchitis and asthma while Amphetamine is used for ADHD and narcolepsy.
3.

Amphetamine was discovered two years later after Ephedrine was discovered in Japan.
4.

Both drugs have unwanted side effects so consult your doctor if it is not tolerable.