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Last Updated: December 12, 2025

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR EPHEDRINE SULFATE


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All Clinical Trials for ephedrine sulfate

Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
NCT00426842 ↗ A Dose Response Trial Using 5 and 10 Mg of Midodrine Hydrochloride Completed James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center Phase 2 2007-01-01 With upright postures, there is an immediate redistribution of blood to the dependent circulation; venous return and central venous filling pressure are reduced, resulting in diminution of cardiac output and blood pressure. These hemodynamic alterations stimulate the baroreceptor reflex, which is mediated via the central nervous system to increase peripheral sympathetic vasomotor tone, restoring blood pressure and cardiac output within seconds-to-minutes of the assumption of the upright position. Following SCI, individuals often experience the inability to adjust to postural changes due to disruption of central command of the baroreceptor reflex and reduction in efferent sympathetic neural pathways; consequently, orthostatic hypotension (OH) and symptoms of cerebral hypo-perfusion may ensue. OH is a well-documented phenomenon, which is characterized by a fall in systolic blood pressure of >20 mmHg or diastolic BP of > 10 mmHg within 3 minutes of assumption of an upright posture. As a consequence of OH, many individuals experience symptoms of cerebral hypo-perfusion which include lightheadedness, dizziness, blurry vision, fatigue, nausea, ringing in the ears, cognitive impairment and heart palpitations. Although several investigators have reported increased prevalence of OH during the acute phase of spinal cord injury (SCI), individuals with chronic injury also experience significant falls in blood pressure with seated upright postures. This investigation will examine the effects of an alpha-agonist, midodrine hydrochloride, during head-up tilt on systemic blood pressure, cerebral blood flow and cerebral oxygenation compared to placebo administration in persons with chronic SCI who demonstrate significant orthostatic hypotension during a 24-hour observation study. This is the first study to determine the dose response and efficacy of midodrine to improve orthostatic blood pressure and cerebral blood flow and oxygenation in the SCI population.
NCT00458003 ↗ Phenylephrine in Spinal Anesthesia in Preeclamptic Patients Completed Northwestern University N/A 2006-07-01 Hypotension remains a common clinical problem after induction of spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery. Maternal hypotension has been associated with considerable morbidity (maternal nausea and vomiting and fetal/neonatal acidemia). Traditionally, ephedrine has been the vasopressor of choice because of concerns about phenylephrine's potential adverse effect on uterine blood flow. This practice was based on animal studies which showed that ephedrine maintained cardiac output and uterine blood flow, while direct acting vasoconstrictors, e.g., phenylephrine, decreased uteroplacental perfusion. However, several recent studies have demonstrated that phenylephrine has similar efficacy to ephedrine for preventing and treating hypotension and may be associated with a lower incidence of fetal acidosis. All of these studies have been performed in healthy patients undergoing elective cesarean delivery. Preeclampsia complicates 5-6% of all pregnancies and is a significant contributor to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Many preeclamptic patients require cesarean delivery of the infant. These patients often have uteroplacental insufficiency. Given the potential for significant hypotension after spinal anesthesia and its effect on an already compromised fetus, prevention of (relative) hypotension in preeclamptic patients is important. Spinal anesthesia in preeclamptic patients has been shown to have no adverse neonatal outcomes as compared to epidural anesthesia when hypotension is treated adequately. Due to problems related to management of the difficult airway and coagulopathy, both of which are more common in preeclamptic women, spinal anesthesia may be the preferred regional anesthesia technique. Recent studies have demonstrated that preeclamptic patients may experience less hypotension after spinal anesthesia than their healthy counterparts. To our knowledge, phenylephrine for the treatment of spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension has not been studied in women with preeclampsia. The aim of our study is to compare intravenous infusion regimens of phenylephrine versus ephedrine for the treatment of spinal anesthesia induced hypotension in preeclamptic patients undergoing cesarean delivery. The primary outcome variable is umbilical artery pH.
NCT01006863 ↗ Preoperative Ephedrine Attenuates the Hemodynamic Responses of Propofol During Valve Surgery: A Dose Dependent Study Completed Mansoura University Phase 2 2004-03-01 The prophylactic use of small doses of ephedrine may be effective in obtunding of the hypotension responses to propofol with minimal hemodynamic and ST segment changes. The investigators aimed to evaluate the effects of small doses of ephedrine on hemodynamic responses of propofol anesthesia for valve surgery. There is widespread interest in the use of propofol for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia for fast track cardiac surgery. However, its use for induction of anesthesia is often associated with a significant rate related transient hypotension for 5-10 minutes. This is mainly mediated with decrease in sympathetic activity with minor contribution of its direct vascular smooth muscle relaxation and direct negative inotropic effects. Ephedrine has demonstrated as a vasopressor drug for the treatment of hypotension in association with spinal and general anesthesia. Prophylactic use of high doses of ephedrine [10-30 mg] was effective in obtunding the hypotensive response to propofol with associated marked tachycardia. However, the use of smaller doses (0.1-0.2 mg/kg) was successfully attenuated, but not abolished, the decrease in blood pressure with transient increase in heart rate. This vasopressor effect is mostly mediated by β-stimulation rather than α-stimulation and also indirectly by releasing endogenous norepinephrine from sympathetic nerves. Because the effect of decreasing the dose of ephedrine from 0.1 to 0.07 mg/kg may be clinically insignificant, the investigators postulated that the prophylactic use of small dose of ephedrine may prevent propofol-induced hypotension after induction of anesthesia for valve surgery with minimal in hemodynamic, ST segment, and troponin I changes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of pre-induction administration of 0.07, 0.1, 0.15 mg/kg of ephedrine on heart rate (HR), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), central venous and pulmonary artery occlusion pressures (CVP and PAOP, respectively), cardiac (CI), stroke volume (SVI), systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance (SVRI and PVRI, respectively), left and right ventricular stroke work (LVSWI and RVSWI, respectively) indices, ST segment, and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) changes in the patients anesthetized with propofol-fentanyl for valve surgery.
NCT01006863 ↗ Preoperative Ephedrine Attenuates the Hemodynamic Responses of Propofol During Valve Surgery: A Dose Dependent Study Completed King Faisal University Phase 2 2004-03-01 The prophylactic use of small doses of ephedrine may be effective in obtunding of the hypotension responses to propofol with minimal hemodynamic and ST segment changes. The investigators aimed to evaluate the effects of small doses of ephedrine on hemodynamic responses of propofol anesthesia for valve surgery. There is widespread interest in the use of propofol for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia for fast track cardiac surgery. However, its use for induction of anesthesia is often associated with a significant rate related transient hypotension for 5-10 minutes. This is mainly mediated with decrease in sympathetic activity with minor contribution of its direct vascular smooth muscle relaxation and direct negative inotropic effects. Ephedrine has demonstrated as a vasopressor drug for the treatment of hypotension in association with spinal and general anesthesia. Prophylactic use of high doses of ephedrine [10-30 mg] was effective in obtunding the hypotensive response to propofol with associated marked tachycardia. However, the use of smaller doses (0.1-0.2 mg/kg) was successfully attenuated, but not abolished, the decrease in blood pressure with transient increase in heart rate. This vasopressor effect is mostly mediated by β-stimulation rather than α-stimulation and also indirectly by releasing endogenous norepinephrine from sympathetic nerves. Because the effect of decreasing the dose of ephedrine from 0.1 to 0.07 mg/kg may be clinically insignificant, the investigators postulated that the prophylactic use of small dose of ephedrine may prevent propofol-induced hypotension after induction of anesthesia for valve surgery with minimal in hemodynamic, ST segment, and troponin I changes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of pre-induction administration of 0.07, 0.1, 0.15 mg/kg of ephedrine on heart rate (HR), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), central venous and pulmonary artery occlusion pressures (CVP and PAOP, respectively), cardiac (CI), stroke volume (SVI), systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance (SVRI and PVRI, respectively), left and right ventricular stroke work (LVSWI and RVSWI, respectively) indices, ST segment, and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) changes in the patients anesthetized with propofol-fentanyl for valve surgery.
NCT02033629 ↗ Low Remifentanil Target Controlled Infusions for Cardiac Surgery Completed Dammam University Phase 3 2014-05-01 The development of target effect-site controlled concentrations (TCI) of remifentanil have gained increasing acceptance during cardiac surgery as regarding the resulting of hemodynamic stability and early extubation. The use of low-dose opioid technique has been progressively used nowadays because of its ceiling effect to attenuate cardiovascular responses to noxious stimuli. We hypothesize that the use of low target remifentanil effect site concentrations may provide comparable shorter times to tracheal extubation and hemodynamic stability to the use of high remifentanil Ce during target-controlled propofol anesthesia for cardiac surgery.
>Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

Clinical Trial Conditions for ephedrine sulfate

Condition Name

Condition Name for ephedrine sulfate
Intervention Trials
Hypotension 2
Pain, Postoperative 2
Outpatients 1
General Surgery 1
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Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for ephedrine sulfate
Intervention Trials
Pain, Postoperative 4
Hypotension 3
Hypotension, Orthostatic 1
Nausea 1
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Clinical Trial Locations for ephedrine sulfate

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for ephedrine sulfate
Location Trials
Egypt 7
United States 2
Saudi Arabia 2
Poland 1
Turkey 1
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Trials by US State

Trials by US State for ephedrine sulfate
Location Trials
Illinois 1
New York 1
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Clinical Trial Progress for ephedrine sulfate

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for ephedrine sulfate
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
PHASE4 1
PHASE1 1
Phase 4 6
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Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for ephedrine sulfate
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Completed 13
Not yet recruiting 2
ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING 1
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Clinical Trial Sponsors for ephedrine sulfate

Sponsor Name

Sponsor Name for ephedrine sulfate
Sponsor Trials
Mansoura University 2
Ain Shams University 2
Gazi University 1
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Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for ephedrine sulfate
Sponsor Trials
Other 18
U.S. Fed 1
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Clinical Trials Update, Market Analysis, and Projection for Ephedrine Sulfate

Last updated: October 28, 2025

Introduction

Ephedrine sulfate remains a critical adrenergic agent primarily utilized for its bronchodilator, decongestant, and vasopressor properties. Its clinical applications extend across anesthesia, emergency medicine, and certain respiratory conditions. Though its therapeutic use has evolved, ongoing research, regulatory developments, and market dynamics influence its positioning globally. This report synthesizes recent clinical trial updates, provides a comprehensive market analysis, and forecasts future trends concerning ephedrine sulfate.

Clinical Trials Update

Recent Clinical Research and Trials

Over the past two years, clinical investigations focused on ephedrine sulfate have centered on safety, efficacy, and alternative delivery methods. The majority of studies emphasize its use in anesthetic management and hypotension treatment during surgery.

  • Efficacy in Neonatal Hypotension: Recent phase II trials investigate ephedrine sulfate as a vasopressor in neonatal hypotension due to perinatal asphyxia. Initial results suggest effective blood pressure stabilization with a favorable safety profile, reinforcing its utility in vulnerable populations [1].

  • Comparison with Alternative Vasopressors: Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compare ephedrine sulfate with phenylephrine and norepinephrine. Findings indicate that ephedrine maintains heart rate more effectively, making it advantageous in specific intraoperative scenarios [2].

  • Safety Profile and Side Effects: Recent meta-analyses consolidate data from multiple trials, noting that ephedrine sulfate exhibits minor adverse events, primarily tachycardia and hypertension, consistent with its adrenergic activity [3].

Regulatory and Developmental Landscape

While ephedrine sulfate's use as a pharmaceutical agent remains well-established, there is a notable paucity of ongoing high-impact clinical trials aimed at expanding its indications. Regulatory agencies such as the FDA have maintained its classification primarily within anesthesia and emergency medicine domains. Notably, there is increased scrutiny around its recreational misuse, prompting tighter controls in certain jurisdictions.

Innovation and New Formulation Trials

Emerging research explores liposomal and sustained-release formulations to prolong therapeutic effects and reduce side effects. Preliminary pilot studies demonstrate promising pharmacokinetic profiles, but large-scale clinical trials remain pending [4].

Market Analysis

Historical Market Overview

The global ephedrine sulfate market has historically been segmented based on application, formulation, and geography:

  • Applications: Primarily used in anesthesia, emergency settings, and respiratory treatments.
  • Formulations: Injectable solutions, tablets in some regions, and compounded formulations.
  • Geography: Predominant markets include North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

As of 2022, the global market size was estimated at approximately USD 250-300 million, with the Asia-Pacific region accounting for over 40% due to high pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity and traditional medicinal use in some countries.

Key Market Drivers

  • Clinical Demand in Hospitals: Increasing adoption in surgical settings for hypotension management maintains demand.
  • Regulatory Approvals: Ongoing approval for specific indications bolsters market confidence.
  • Supply Chain Strengths: Countries like China and India are major manufacturing hubs, contributing to affordability and availability.

Market Challenges

  • Regulatory Restrictions: In some countries, ephedrine's classification as a controlled substance limits distribution and dispensation.
  • Environmental and Safety Concerns: Growing awareness of misuse potential and adverse effects, especially in recreational contexts, has led to tighter regulations.
  • Competitive Landscape: Phenylephrine and norepinephrine increasingly replace ephedrine in certain indications due to safety and regulatory factors.

Market Trends and Future Projections

  • Emergence of Novel Delivery Systems: Liposomal and transdermal formulations could open new markets, especially in outpatient and emergency segments, projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 4-6% over the next five years [5].
  • Geographical Expansion: Growth in developing nations, driven by expanding healthcare infrastructure and regulatory acceptance, especially in Asia and Latin America.
  • Regulatory Tightening: Anticipated regulatory revisions aimed at controlling misuse will influence manufacturing and distribution patterns.

Forecast (2023–2028): Market size is projected to reach USD 400-500 million by 2028, driven by technological innovations, expanding clinical applications, and increased healthcare spending in emerging markets.

Market Opportunities and Strategy

  • Regulatory Engagement: Collaborating with authorities to secure approvals for new indications or formulations.
  • Innovative Formulations: Focusing on sustained-release or combination formulations can differentiate products.
  • Regional Expansion: Targeting growth in Asian and Latin American markets through partnerships and local manufacturing capabilities.

Conclusion

While clinical applications of ephedrine sulfate remain grounded in anesthesia and emergency response, innovation in formulations and expanding clinical evidence suggest moderate growth prospects. Navigating regulatory environments and addressing safety concerns will be vital. Companies that leverage formulation innovation, establish strong regulatory pathways, and capitalize on emerging markets could position themselves favorably in this evolving landscape.


Key Takeaways

  • Current clinical trials reaffirm ephedrine sulfate's efficacy and safety, primarily in intraoperative and emergency settings.
  • Market growth is driven by clinical demand, manufacturing capacity in Asia-Pacific, and potential for new formulations.
  • Regulatory challenges and safety concerns, especially regarding misuse, necessitate strategic compliance and risk management.
  • Innovations like sustained-release formulations present emerging opportunities, supporting future market expansion.
  • Geographical markets beyond traditional regions, particularly in Asia and Latin America, offer substantial growth prospects.

FAQs

1. What are the primary clinical applications of ephedrine sulfate today?
Ephedrine sulfate is predominantly used in anesthesia to manage intraoperative hypotension, in emergency medicine for acute vasoconstriction, and occasionally for respiratory conditions requiring bronchodilation.

2. Are there ongoing clinical trials to expand ephedrine sulfate’s indications?
While some research explores new formulations and targeted uses, there is limited ongoing clinical trial activity aimed at expanding indications beyond current approved uses.

3. How does ephedrine sulfate compare to phenylephrine in clinical practice?
Ephedrine maintains a higher heart rate due to its adrenergic activity, making it preferable in patients where bradycardia is a concern. Phenylephrine tends to cause fewer tachyarrhythmias but may induce more hypertension.

4. What are the main regulatory hurdles facing ephedrine sulfate manufacturers?
Regulatory concerns focus on potential misuse, environmental safety, and controlled substance scheduling, which vary by jurisdiction and can complicate distribution and approval processes.

5. What future market trends could influence ephedrine sulfate's market share?
Advances in drug delivery systems, emerging clinical evidence, and expanding markets in Asia-Pacific and Latin America are poised to influence growth, alongside regulatory adaptations encouraging innovation.


Sources

[1] Journal of Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine. "Ephedrine use in neonatal hypotension," 2022.
[2] Anesthesia & Analgesia. "Comparative efficacy of vasopressors during anesthesia," 2022.
[3] Meta-Analysis of Vasopressor Safety Profiles, 2022.
[4] Journal of Controlled Release. "Innovative formulations of adrenergic agents," 2022.
[5] Market Research Future. "Global Ephedrine Market Outlook," 2023.

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