Enurace

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Enurace

Treatment option: Asthma, Bronchospasm

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Enurace

Property Description
Active ingredient Ephedrine hydrochloride
Form Tablet (Oral administration)
Pharmacological class Sympathomimetic Amine
General purpose Enhances urethral sphincter tone
Origin Synthetic

What Type of Medicine is Enurace and What is it Made Of?

Enurace is a veterinary medicinal product primarily defined by its single active component, Ephedrine hydrochloride, which places the drug firmly within the Sympathomimetic Amine pharmacological class. This formulation is specifically manufactured as a tablet for oral administration. Ephedrine hydrochloride is a pure chemical substance that is typically synthesized to ensure consistent quality and strength across the product, rather than being derived directly from its natural plant source. This classification confirms its action is mediated through the sympathetic nervous system, a principle in regulating smooth muscle tone through interactions with adrenergic receptors.


What is the General Purpose of Taking Enurace?

The general purpose of Enurace is to provide pharmacological support that enhances the mechanical function of the lower urinary tract system. By utilizing its Sympathomimetic Amine properties, the drug serves to strengthen the retention capabilities of the urethral sphincter mechanism. The underlying action involves stimulating adrenergic receptors, which results in the contraction of internal urethral sphincter muscles and concurrent relaxation of bladder muscles. This specific effect is the mechanism by which the medicine supports improved urinary control and helps manage functional weaknesses in the retention apparatus. The overall benefit is derived from improving the muscle tone essential for continence, based on the drug's product characteristics.

What side effects are possible with Enurace?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile of Ephedrine hydrochloride, the active ingredient in Enurace, is formally categorized by government regulatory authorities based on the affected System-Organ Classes (SOC) and the frequency of occurrence.

Adverse effects commonly reported in regulatory documents involve Cardiac disorders and Nervous system disorders.


Official Adverse Reactions and Frequency

Classification Examples of Documented Adverse Reactions (SOC)
Common Tachycardia (increased heart rate), excitability, restlessness, hypertension, vomiting, urinary retention, and tremors.
Not Known Myocardial ischaemia and serious cardiac arrhythmias.

Common adverse reactions are those observed in 1 to 10 users out of every 100, while Not Known indicates that the frequency cannot be estimated from the available data submitted to regulators.


Serious Safety Considerations

Official labeling documents serious adverse reactions such as myocardial ischaemia (reduced blood flow to the heart muscle) and serious cardiac arrhythmias (severe irregularities of heart rhythm). Use of the product is formally contraindicated (restricted) in individuals with specific conditions, including glaucoma, phaeochromocytoma, and severe, uncontrolled hypertension.

Regulatory safety notes also address specific populations. Individuals with pre-existing heart disease or hypothyroidism are noted to be at an increased risk of specific adverse effects. Additionally, certain adverse effects are documented as more likely to occur at the start of treatment and are generally reversible upon discontinuation of the substance.

This structured safety information, defined by regulatory authorities, serves to formally communicate the medicine's risk profile.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help: Enurace (Phenylpropanolamine)

Overdose of Enurace, a preparation containing Phenylpropanolamine (PPA), is officially documented to carry a risk of severe toxicity primarily affecting the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Cardiovascular System. This profile is consistent with the drug's classification as a sympathomimetic amine.

Clinical Manifestations of Overdose

Officially documented signs of overdose include profound CNS stimulation, such as restlessness, tremors, headache, and dizziness, which can progress to hallucinations and seizures. The most critical cardiovascular presentations include severe hypertension (markedly increased blood pressure), rapid heartbeat (palpitations), and, in the most severe cases, the potential for cerebral hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain) or cardiac arrhythmias.

System Affected Key Overdose Manifestations
Cardiovascular Severe Hypertension, Palpitations, Cardiac Arrhythmias
Central Nervous System Restlessness, Tremors, Seizures, Cerebral Hemorrhage

Required Emergency Action

Immediate emergency medical attention must be sought or a poison control center contacted immediately if an overdose is suspected, even if no symptoms are immediately apparent. The life-threatening complications, particularly uncontrolled hypertension and CNS events, require urgent supportive and symptomatic management in a clinical setting to stabilize blood pressure and manage excessive stimulation. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking professional help.

Therapeutic Uses of Enurace

Enurace is applied in addressing specific veterinary-urological conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations, and it is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes.

The primary indication involves management of symptoms linked to organ-specific functional stress, specifically urinary incontinence caused by urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence in ovariohysterectomised female dogs. This treatment may be part of symptomatic management and is relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate for symptoms that become more disruptive during flare-ups. It contributes to easing the overall symptom load and helps improve day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods by assisting with functional stability.

Quick Fact: Relief for Symptoms that interfere with daily functioning

The ultimate benefit supports the patient through difficult episodes. The treatment is relevant for easing distress and helps maintain a sense of stability during these challenging phases.

Regulatory References

  1. Veterinary Medicines Directorate Product Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility profile for Enurace (Ephedrine hydrochloride) is strictly defined by regulatory authorities for use only in ovariohysterectomised female dogs experiencing urinary incontinence caused by urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence.

Contraindications

The medicine is contraindicated and must not be used in animals with glaucoma or a known hypersensitivity to Ephedrine or any excipients. Concurrent administration with halogenated narcotics is also prohibited under official labeling.

Conditional Use and Restrictions

Use requires special caution and comprehensive monitoring in dogs with several pre-existing conditions. These restricted populations include dogs diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperadrenocorticism, hyperthyroidism, or other metabolic disorders. Animals with impaired renal function or partial urethral obstruction also fall into this restricted category.

In terms of age and size, the medicine is not recommended for dogs under 5 kilograms bodyweight. For dogs less than one year old, the possibility of anatomical disorders must be considered. Use during pregnancy or lactation is officially classified as Not applicable to the product's target population.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Enurace Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

The interaction profile for Enurace (Ephedrine hydrochloride) is defined by its classification as a Sympathomimetic Amine, requiring strict adherence to regulatory constraints regarding co-administration with other medicines.

Contraindicated Combinations

Official regulatory documents classify co-administration with the following substances as contraindicated due to the high risk of severe cardiovascular events, such as hypertensive crises or vasoconstriction:

Substance Category Examples
Other Sympathomimetic Agents Phenylpropanolamine, Phenylephrine
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Non-selective and Selective MAO-A Inhibitors
Certain Antidepressants Tricyclic Antidepressants, Linezolid, Sibutramine
Halogenated Volatile Anaesthetics Halothane, Cyclopropane

Documented Pharmacodynamic and Clearance Interactions

Other documented interactions require caution due to additive effects or altered clearance:

  • Cardiac-Sensitizing Agents: Use with medicines like Cardiac Glycosides or Quinidine increases the regulatory-documented risk of arrhythmia.
  • Clearance Modification: Ephedrine may enhance the metabolism of glucocorticoids, leading to an increased clearance of Dexamethasone.
  • Urine pH Dependent Excretion: Substances that raise the urine pH (alkalinizers) are known to prolong the excretion of ephedrine, while substances that lower the pH (acidifiers) accelerate its clearance.

Timing Restrictions

Regulatory labeling specifies a mandatory 14-day period following the termination of MAO Inhibitor treatment before administering Enurace.

Mechanism of Action

How Enurace Works

Enurace operates through a precise mechanism, engaging specific molecular targets to modulate key physiological responses. The biological signaling change is achieved through pathway modulation, resulting in altered systemic physiological regulation.

Regulation of Receptor-Mediated Signaling

This domain centers on Enurace's ability to modulate key pathways associated with heightened physiological responses by acting within domains involving receptor-mediated signaling. The mechanism initiates the suppression of signaling sequences that typically lead to overactivity and decreases the effects associated with elevated mediator activity, resulting in modified pathway feedback.

Influence on Specific Transmitter Systems

Enurace influences systems where specific transmitters or mediators dominate by affecting processes driven by distinct signaling patterns. This involves modifying early molecular steps that shape systemic physiological outcomes. This sequence results in the adjustment of heightened physiological response amplitude.

Engagement of Pathway Feedback Mechanisms

The drug acts in systems where targeted pathway adjustment is required, engaging mechanisms that regulate overactive or dysregulated processes. Enurace is applied in contexts involving the rapid modulation of physiological responses, specifically to influence feedback regulation within pathways, resulting in downstream physiological adjustments.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Enurace is Used: Administration Guidelines

The usage of Enurace (Ephedrine hydrochloride) is defined by specific technical documentation, focusing on administration via the oral route as a tablet. The medicine's protocol is structured around a precise, weight-based calculation and subsequent dose titration to maintain control.


Dosing and Schedule

Administration is initiated with a starting dose of 2 mg of Ephedrine hydrochloride per kilogram (kg) of bodyweight per day. The total daily amount must be divided into two equal portions and administered twice daily. The maximum permitted daily dose must not exceed 5 mg/kg.


Administration Context and Titration

To ensure proper intake, the tablet is intended to be given in a piece of food and administered before meals. The tablets are manufactured to be scored, allowing them to be divided into two or four equal parts to facilitate accurate dosing, with unused divided portions being returned to the original blister for the subsequent dose.

Following the initial course, which typically lasts about ten days, the regimen requires adjustment to establish the lowest effective dose. This maintenance dose is then used for the long-term duration of the treatment. The established protocol requires regular professional monitoring (e.g., at 14 days, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and every 6 months thereafter) to ensure the sustained efficacy of the maintenance dose.

Note on Population-Specific Rules: The 50 mg tablet strength is not authorized for use in individuals weighing less than 20 kg, and the 10 mg strength is not authorized for use in those weighing less than 5 kg.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Enurace

Evidence for Use in Urinary Incontinence (USMI)

The evidence base for the medicine was evaluated for use in managing urinary incontinence that is attributed to Urethral Sphincter Mechanism Incompetence (USMI). The available evidence includes short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and supporting observational field trials. These research efforts were applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences related to the condition, which is characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations. The trials focused on specific populations: ovariohysterectomised female dogs diagnosed with this functional issue.

In these studies, researchers examined various outcomes related to physical discomfort and daily functioning, particularly monitoring the change in the frequency and severity of urinary leakage events. Studies monitored specific patterns related to reductions in incontinent episodes over the short term (typically 4–8 weeks), and findings describe patterns observed in the studies that help contextualize how patients reported their experience.

Study Designs: Controlled Trials and Comparative Research

To evaluate the substance in Enurace, the primary method involved controlled research where the medication was studied in the context of symptom patterns against a placebo (an inactive control) or against other existing treatments. These controlled settings allow researchers to isolate and observe changes measured during the study period. Data describe patterns related to how symptom frequency and severity were observed to vary between the actively studied group and the control group over a short duration.

Long-Term Follow-up and Durability of Study Findings

While USMI is a chronic condition, the research base relies mostly on studies with limited follow-up durations for definitive, controlled conclusions. The initial efficacy trials are often short-term, typically lasting less than two months. Research efforts have extended to intermediate-term observational settings for up to six months to track the persistence of observed changes. Few controlled data are available for long-term outcomes beyond these intermediate durations.

What Remains Uncertain: Research Gaps and Limitations

The evidence landscape presents several key research limitations. The primary challenge is that long-term effects are not fully established, as follow-up durations were limited in the most controlled trials. Furthermore, sample sizes were modest in some studies, and evidence quality varies across studies when moving from controlled trials to observational field data. Certainty remains low regarding the consistency of response beyond the studied timeframes. Research provides context regarding group patterns; however, study results do not predict individual outcomes.

Key Studies & References

  1. Enurace - Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) Product Information
  2. Enurace - Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) Product Information Search Result

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Enurace (FAQ)


Q: Is Enurace the same kind of medicine as [similar drug name]?

The active substance in Enurace, Ephedrine hydrochloride, is classified in official documents as a Sympathomimetic Amine. This term describes a type of medicine that influences the body's sympathetic nervous system. Different medicines may belong to the same class but have unique properties and specific regulatory uses.


Q: Do I need to take Enurace forever?

Official dosing guidelines state that a maintenance dose is established for a long-term duration to manage the condition. However, the available controlled research base primarily focuses on short-term outcomes, with some observational follow-up extending to intermediate durations (up to six months). Regulatory information does not describe a required indefinite continuation.


Q: Can Enurace affect my sleep?

Regulatory documents list side effects that involve the nervous system, which include commonly reported reactions such as excitability and restlessness. These effects relate to the body’s state of arousal and may impact sleep patterns.


Q: Can a pregnant person take Enurace?

The specific product labeling states that use during pregnancy is not applicable to the medicine’s target population. For the active substance generally, regulatory agencies have assigned various safety statuses (such as TGA Category A or FDA Category C) to describe the evidence related to its use in pregnant individuals.


Q: Can I stop taking Enurace suddenly?

Regulatory adverse event reports list drug dependence and addiction as potential, though uncommon, adverse reactions associated with the active substance. This information describes potential issues that may be relevant to discussions about discontinuing the medicine.


Q: How long do the effects of Enurace last after the last dose?

The official dosing protocol requires the total daily dose to be divided into two equal portions and administered twice daily. The twice-daily schedule reflects the frequency determined necessary for the drug’s intended use.


Q: Is it normal to feel slightly dizzy when starting Enurace?

Regulatory adverse reaction lists, documented under nervous system disorders, include dizziness as a possible event. This indicates that dizziness is a recognized finding in individuals taking the active substance.


Q: Are there any common foods or drinks to avoid while taking Enurace?

Official information notes that dietary supplements, foods, or beverages that contain caffeine or other stimulant ingredients should be reviewed. This is because the active substance, Ephedrine, and caffeine both affect the heart and blood pressure.


Q: Does Enurace interact with caffeine?

Yes, there is a documented interaction. Both the active substance in Enurace and caffeine can increase heart rate and blood pressure. The combination may lead to enhanced cardiovascular effects, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.


Q: Are there any known issues with taking Enurace before driving?

Official regulatory documents state that no specific studies have been conducted to evaluate the medicine's effects on the ability to drive or operate machinery. This indicates a lack of definitive data on this specific matter.


Q: Is Enurace addictive or habit-forming?

Regulatory adverse event documentation lists addiction and drug dependence as potential reactions associated with the active substance in the psychiatric/other disorder categories. The frequency of these events is not reported.


Q: Is Enurace a controlled substance?

In the United States, regulatory documents classify the active substance as None for the purpose of DEA scheduling. This indicates it is not currently subject to the specific regulations governing controlled substances.


Q: Does Enurace show up on standard drug tests?

Official safety notes advise that the active substance in the preparation might give a positive reaction in anti-doping tests. This warning is provided for athletes and relevant individuals who may undergo such testing.


Q: Does Enurace affect fertility or reproductive health?

Regulatory documentation explicitly states that the effects of the active ingredient on male and female fertility have not been investigated in animal studies. Therefore, definitive conclusions regarding its impact are not available from the controlled research.


Q: Can Enurace cause weight changes?

The active ingredient in Enurace has been examined in clinical research for other applications. In those contexts, it was associated with a greater difference in weight loss when compared to a placebo. This is a known effect described in the literature concerning the substance.


Q: What temperature should I store Enurace at?

Official storage guidelines specify that the medicine should not be stored above 25 C. Other labeling documents for the substance also advise against storage conditions that would likely refrigerate or freeze the product.


Q: How does Enurace exit the body?

The active substance and its metabolite are primarily eliminated from the body by being excreted in the urine. The kidney is the substantial route of this elimination process.


Q: What should be done with expired Enurace pills?

Expired or unused medicine must be disposed of according to local requirements. General regulatory guidelines describe procedures such as using a drug take-back program or mixing the medicine with an undesirable substance (such as dirt or coffee grounds) before disposal.


Q: Is it safe to exercise heavily while taking Enurace?

Regulatory bodies have determined that the active ingredient presents an unreasonable risk of illness or injury when used in dietary supplements for purposes such as enhancing athletic performance. The information indicates a regulatory concern associated with the use of the substance in contexts such as enhancing athletic performance.

How should Enurace be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Enurace

The storage and disposal of Enurace tablets must strictly follow official regulatory guidelines to maintain product stability and safety.

Storage Conditions

Condition Regulatory Requirement
Temperature Limit Do not store above 25^circC.
Container Integrity Store in the original container and close the cap securely after each use.
Partial Doses Divided tablets must be returned to the original package immediately and used in the subsequent dose.
Child Safety Must be kept out of the reach and sight of children.

Disposal Instructions

Expired or unused Enurace must be disposed of in accordance with local requirements for medicinal products. The product must not be allowed to enter sewers/surface or ground water and should not be discarded in household trash due to environmental restrictions.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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