The mechanism of action of Synephrine is mainly reflected in the following aspects:
1. Mechanism of action on the cardiovascular system
Vasoconstriction and elevation of blood pressure
Synephrine acts as an adrenergic alpha-receptor stimulant, causing vasoconstriction through stimulation of alpha receptors, which increases peripheral resistance and thus elevates blood pressure. This action allows it to be used in the treatment of hypotension during surgery and anesthesia, collapse and shock, postural hypotension, and so on.
Regulation of heart function
Synephrine has a certain excitatory effect on cardiac receptors and can enhance myocardial contractility. However, attention should be paid to its potential effects on the cardiovascular system, and it should be used with caution in patients with hypertension or cardiac arrhythmia.
2. The mechanism of action of the respiratory system
Dilation of trachea and bronchial tubes
Synephrine can dilate trachea and bronchial tubes when it acts on α-receptor, and at the same time, it can fight against histamine, relieve tracheal spasm and improve the symptoms of respiratory distress, which is commonly used in the treatment of bronchial asthma.
3. Mechanism of action on fat metabolism
Promote fat decomposition and oxidation
Synephrine stimulates fat cells to decompose and release free fatty acids into the blood circulation by activating β3 adrenergic receptors, accelerating the oxidation and utilization of fat, thus realizing the effect of fat reduction.
Increase Energy Expenditure and Metabolic Rate
Synephrine can mildly increase resting energy expenditure (about 3%-7%), its mechanism is similar to caffeine but with fewer side effects, and is often used as an active ingredient in weight loss products.
4. Mechanism of action on the central nervous system
Improvement of cognitive function
Synephrine increases the release of norepinephrine and dopamine by acting on the dopamine receptors in the central nervous system, increasing the excitability of the cerebral cortex, thus improving attention, memory and cognitive function, and assisting in the treatment of benign memory disorders and cognitive disorders in patients with dementia.
Potential antidepressant effects
Synephrine may play a palliative role in mild and moderate depression caused by obesity by regulating neurotransmitter levels.
5. Other Mechanisms of Action
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
Synephrine reduces inflammatory response by inhibiting lipoxygenase activity and alleviates the damage caused by oxidative stress on the body, which has positive significance in protecting cellular health.
Enhanced athletic performance
Synephrine can promote the oxidative metabolism of fatty acids to provide energy support for training, while prolonging the utilization time of glycogen to enhance exercise endurance, and is often added to sports supplements.