What is the primary effect of ephedrine on blood pressure and heart rate?

Ephedrine is a sympathomimetic drug that primarily stimulates the adrenergic receptors in the body, which leads to an increase in both blood pressure and heart rate. This drug works by promoting the release of norepinephrine and has direct agonistic effects on alpha and beta adrenergic receptors.

The increase in blood pressure occurs due to vasoconstriction effects from alpha-adrenergic stimulation and enhanced cardiac output from beta-adrenergic stimulation. Additionally, the stimulation of beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart contributes to an increase in heart rate, known as positive chronotropic effect.

Because of these combined mechanisms, using ephedrine typically results in a noticeable elevation in blood pressure and heart rate, making it particularly useful in clinical situations where a quick cardiovascular response is necessary, such as in episodes of hypotension.