Ephedrine, associated with sympathomimetic drugs, can lead to what effect?

Ephedrine is a sympathomimetic drug that stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to various physiological effects. One of the primary actions of sympathomimetics like ephedrine is the enhancement of mental alertness and stimulation. This is largely due to the increase in catecholamines, such as norepinephrine, which can elevate mood, enhance focus, and improve cognitive performance. Consequently, this makes increased mental stimulation a notable effect associated with the use of ephedrine.

Other options presented do not align with the pharmacological profile of ephedrine. For example, reduced heart rate would contradict the expected outcome of sympathomimetic stimulation, which usually leads to an increased heart rate. Decreased blood flow is also counterintuitive, as ephedrine generally causes vasoconstriction in some vascular beds while promoting increased blood flow to skeletal muscles. Improved sleep quality is unlikely, as the stimulating effects of ephedrine are more aligned with promoting wakefulness than relaxation or sleep enhancement. Thus, the correct association for ephedrine’s effects in this context is increased mental stimulation.