Definition of "ephedrine"

ephedrine

/ˈɛf.ə.dɹiːn/

noun
countable and uncountable, plural ephedrines
1. (biochemistry, pharmacology) A crystalline alkaloid drug C10H15NO obtained from a Chinese ephedra (Ephedra sinica) or synthesized that has the physiological action of epinephrine. It causes constriction of the blood vessels and widening of the bronchial passages and is used in the form of its hydrochloride or sulfate to relieve asthma and hay fever.
  Quotations
  The great advantage of ephedrine is its effectiveness if taken as a pill, whereas adrenaline works only if injected or inhaled.
  2003, Samuel H. Barondes, chapter 5, in Better than Prozac, Oxford University Press, page 63