ma huang (ephedra) Health Article

How should I take ma huang (ephedra)?

The use of ma huang in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.

Because ma huang (ephedra) has been reported to cause serious, even fatal, side effects such as heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeats, and sudden death, the FDA has recommended that consumers not take ma huang.

If you choose to take ma huang, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.

Standardized extracts, tinctures, and solid formulations of herbal/health supplements may provide a more reliable dose of the product.

Ma huang is usually taken by mouth. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Taking ma huang with food may decrease stomach upset.

The recommended dose of ma huang is no more than 100 mg per day for no longer than 12 weeks. However, in some people, doses of 100 mg per day may not be safe. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before taking ma huang.

Because ma huang has been reported to cause serious, even fatal, side effects such as heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeats, and sudden death, the FDA has recommended that ephedra alkaloids (ma huang) be taken in doses no larger than 8 mg per serving, no more often than every 6 hours, and not to exceed 24 mg per day.

Do not use different formulations of ma huang or other products that contain ma huang or ephedra, caffeine, gotu kola, guarana, pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, or other stimulants at the same time. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose or serious side effects.

Store ma huang as directed on the package.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Missing a dose of ma huang is not harmful. Do not take a double dose to catch up, simply return to the regular schedule. Consult your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you require further information.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of an ma huang overdose may include heart problems (heart attack, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats), stroke, and/or death.

What should I avoid while taking ma huang (ephedra)?

Do not take other products that contain ma huang; ephedra; ephedra alkaloids; ephedrine; decongestants such as pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, and others; weight loss medications; amphetamines; or other stimulants while taking ma huang. Avoid products that contain caffeine while taking ma huang. Coffee, tea, cola, chocolate and herbal products that contain gotu kola, kola nut, guarana, and others are sources of caffeine.

Tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this product before having surgery.