But by recomending Ephedrine, you are only encouraging him to always take the easy road ... If he Really wants to improve then he must set up a diet, and I think its good practice to see your body change with less or more calories. and the general experience of working towards a goal, be it weight or lifts...
As with all drugs, they speed up the process....
But he doesnt have a process yet......
Be it gym time, eating, general life style....
First get a steady routine going..... Only then should he consider that, or any other drug.
My 2 cents.