Main Entry: ephed·rine

Pronunciation: \i-ˈfed-rən, British also ˈef-ə-drən\

Function: noun

: a crystalline alkaloid C₁₀H₁₅NO extracted from a Chinese ephedra (Ephedra sinica) or synthesized that has the physiological action of epinephrine and is usually used in the form of its hydrochloride C₁₀H₁₅NO·HCl or sulfate (C₁₀H₁₅NO)₂·H₂SO₄ as a bronchodilator, nasal decongestant, and vasopressor—see ephedra 2, pseudoephedrine