Effortil® is the trade name of a drug containing the active ingredient Etilefrin. Effortil® can be taken by patients suffering from low blood pressure (arterial hypotension).
Mode of action
Effortil® belongs to the group of so-called sympathomimetics: these are drugs that have a similar effect to the body’s own hormones adrenaline and norardrenaline and can increase the body’s overall performance. Thus the frequent symptoms of arterial hypotension are relieved. When Effortil® is taken, blood pressure is increased due to narrowing of the vessels, especially in the arms and legs. In addition, heart performance (positive inotropic effect) and heart rate (positive chronotropic effect) are increased. In addition to Effortil®, the active ingredient Etilefrin is also found in the following preparations: Etilefrin-ratiopharm, Pholdyston and Thomasin.
Fields of application
Effortil® is used medically for circulatory disorders caused by low blood pressure. If the blood pressure is lower than 110mmHg, the following symptoms may occur: Sometimes low blood pressure also leads to loss of consciousness (syncope), which can be explained by reduced blood flow to the central nervous system in the brain. If such symptoms are present and are demonstrably explained by arterial hypotension, Effortil® can be taken.
Effortil® is available from a pharmacy, but not on prescription. It is available unretarded and retarded (delayed release). The maximum daily intake of Etilefrin should not exceed 30mg unretarded or 50mg sustained release. The preparations are usually given in drop form.
- Swindle
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Blackness before the eyes
Side effects
The side effects that occur when taking Effortil® are all explained by an acceleration of the pulse (increased heart rate) and by the vasoconstriction that Etilefrin produces:
- Cardiac arrhythmia, heart stumbling
- Elevated blood pressure
- Angina pectoris: Feeling of the heart
- Unrest
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Swindle
- Sweating
- Tremble
- Bladder disorders: Problems urinating due to tension of the urethral muscles