Etafedrine is a beta-2 adrenoceptor agonist used to treat a cough associated with inflamed mucosa. Etafedrine (INN) or ethylephedrine is a long-acting bronchodilator and has been an ingredient combined with other drugs in the brand names Nethaprin and Dalmacol.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 3 references
A sympathomimetic agent, etafedrine acts on the sympathetic receptors of the bronchial tree, relieving spasm in a manner similar to that of ephedrine.
Etafedrine acts as a selective β adrenoreceptor agonist, thereby mediating its bronchodilator effects without increasing norepinephrine release. This is distinctly different from ephedrine and tyramine which trigger the release of epinephrine or norepinephrine.
N-ethylation of ephedrine suppresses the indirect sympathomimetic activity and markedly enhances the efficacy on beta 2- adrenoceptors.
- Primary indication
- Conditions characterized by bronchial congestion and bronchospasm when an expectorant or bronchodilator action is required, such as acute bronchitis, acute episodes of chronic bronchitis and bronchial asthma.Curator reviewed · 6 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C12H19NO · 193.29 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 2000
- Brand names
Resolves to
IRVLBORJKFZWMI-JQWIXIFHSA-NSMILESCCN(C)[C@@H](C)[C@H](O)C1=CC=CC=C1What you can answer from here — as of August 30, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Etafedrine, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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