People use ECA stacks to improve exercise performance and lose weight.
However, ECA stacks have side effects, such as anxiety, mood changes, and sleep problems.
Serious safety risks also include heart attacks, seizures, stroke, and sudden death.
EyeEm Mobile GmbH / Getty Images
What Is in an ECA Stack?
However, it is highly regulated and requires a valid photo ID for purchase.
The ECA stack can be particularly dangerous if you have heart-related problems.
Is It Effective?
No studies assessed the long-term effects on weight of products containing ephedra.
Additionally, no research has been conducted since ephedra’s ban.
When used alone, many studies do not support ephedra’s claim of improving exercise performance.
Overall, insufficient evidence exists on ECA stack’s effects on athletic performance.
Serious problems are more likely in people with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.
Side effects might be more heightened in some peopleeven at low doses.
With all of these risks, ephedra-containing products are unsafe for use while pregnant or breastfeeding.
In 2002, the National Poison Data system recorded over 10,000 reports of ephedra poisonings in the United States.
After the FDA ban, the number of reported poisonings decreased to 180 by 2013.
Further, these ephedra-free products have very similar side effects to the ingredients in the banned products.
This may increase the risk of fast heart rate and heart rhythm problems.
There is insufficient data for its athletic performance claim.
Risks include heart attack, stroke, and sudden death.
Due to these serious safety concerns, the FDA banned ephedra-containing products in 2004.
A healthy diet and exercise are optimal strategies for weight loss.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Ephedra.
2021;5(10):e28957.
2001;36(4):420-424.
2023;20(1):2185538 doi: 10.1080/15502783.2023.2185538
Walter K.Caffeine and health.JAMA.
2022;327(7):693. doi: 10.1001/jama.2021.21452
MedlinePlus.Aspirin.
DailyMed.Label: Bronkaid Max- ephedrine sulfate, tablet coated.
DailyMed.Label: ephedrine sulfate injection, solution.
Sellami M, Slimeni O, Pokrywka A, et al.Herbal medicine for sports: a review.JISSN.
2018;15(1).
doi: 10.1186/s12970-018-0218-y
Ahrendt DM.Ergoenic aids: counseling the athlete.Am Fam Physician.
2001;63(5):913-923.
Zell-Kanter M, Quigley MA, Leikin JB.Reduction in ephedra poisonings after FDA ban.N Engl Med.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Tips for healthy eating for a healthy weight.
MedlinePlus.Nutrition and athletic performance.
National Center for Complementary ahd Integrative Health.6 things to know about dietary supplements marketed for bodybuilding or performance enhancement.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Bodybuilding and performance enhancement supplements: what you oughta know.
