Final answer:
Ephedrine can cause an increased heart rate and blood pressure because it acts on the body's adrenergic receptors in a manner similar to epinephrine.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ephedrine is a compound extracted from the Ephedra plant and is chemically similar to adrenaline (epinephrine). Like epinephrine, ephedrine acts on the body's adrenergic receptors and can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Therefore, ephedrine can cause Increased heart rate and blood pressure, which is the correct answer to the student's question (Option A). Moreover, epinephrine and ephedrine also elevate blood glucose levels and reduce nasal and bronchial congestion.