The drug Biphedrine® was used to treat microbial infections and inflammation in all seasons. It was used to treat common cold, hay fever, rhinitis, sinusitis. An oil-based formulation containing ephedrine (base) together with camphor, eucalyptol, mint oil and limon oil was proposed during winter. An aqueous form containing ephedrine chlorhydrate mixed with amylocaine, chlorobutanol, and without or with hydrocortisone was given for the summer and spring seasons. A combination of biphedrine and penicillin G was proposed for winter. Biphedrine® is no longer marketed.
Ephedrine is a well-known plant alkaloid that exhibits a direct adrenergic action, commonly used to treat cold. The vasoconstrictor drug is used to control blood pressure, in particular to treat hypotension. The sympathomimetic product is efficient but it can exert serious cardiovascular side effects, including stroke and heart attack. Under medical control, ephedrine remains used today for the treatment of clinically significant hypotension perioperatively. It is used also for temporary relief of shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing due to bronchial asthma.
