What are the functions, effects, and contraindications of licorice tablets?

Generally, Gancao Pian refers to Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets, which have functions including clearing heat and detoxifying, relieving spasms and pain, invigorating Qi and benefiting the spleen, eliminating phlegm and relieving cough, and detoxification. However, there are certain contraindications, such as avoiding spicy foods, caution for patients with gastric diseases, pregnant women, patients with kidney disease, and those allergic to its components. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is advised. Detailed explanations are as follows:

I. Functions and Effects

1. Clearing Heat and Detoxifying

Ingredients in Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets, such as glycyrrhizic acid, have heat-clearing and detoxifying effects. They can be used to treat symptoms such as sore throat, oral ulcers, and red, swollen, painful eyes. Additionally, Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets can alleviate symptoms of abscesses and swelling caused by excessive internal heat.

2. Relieving Spasms and Pain

Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets contain opioid substances that can relieve smooth muscle spasms and have antispasmodic and analgesic effects. They can be used to treat symptoms such as chest and rib pain, abdominal pain, limb stiffness, spasms, and pain.

3. Invigorating Qi and Benefiting the Spleen

Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets have a sweet taste and can strengthen the spleen Qi, enhancing the digestive and transforming functions of the spleen and stomach. They can be used to treat symptoms such as indigestion, loss of appetite, and fatigue caused by spleen Qi deficiency.

4. Eliminating Phlegm and Relieving Cough

Ingredients in Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets such as licorice extract powder and opium powder have expectorant and antitussive effects. They can reduce irritation of the throat and trachea, alleviate coughing and excessive phlegm, stimulate bronchial mucosa, reflexively increase glandular secretion, dilute sputum, and make it easier to expel phlegm.

5. Detoxification

Ingredients in Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets such as glycyrrhizic acid can bind with various toxic substances to form compounds that are not easily absorbed by the human body, thereby exerting a detoxifying effect. At the same time, Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets can promote the excretion of metabolic products in the body and alleviate symptoms of poisoning such as food or drug poisoning.

II. Contraindications

1. Avoid Spicy Foods

During treatment with Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets, avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, as they may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and affect the drug's efficacy.

2. Use with Caution in Patients with Gastric Diseases

Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets may irritate the gastric mucosa and worsen symptoms of gastric diseases such as gastritis and gastric ulcers; therefore, patients with gastric diseases should use them cautiously.

3. Use with Caution in Pregnant Women

Some ingredients in Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets may have adverse effects on the fetus and impair fetal growth and development. Therefore, pregnant women should consult a physician before using Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets and use them cautiously.

4. Use with Caution in Patients with Kidney Disease

Glycyrrhizic acid in Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets has a potassium-excreting effect, which may lead to reduced potassium levels in the body and worsen kidney disease. Additionally, glycyrrhizic acid has nephrotoxicity and may damage the kidneys. Patients with kidney disease should use Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets under the guidance of a physician.

5. Use with Caution in Individuals with Allergies

If an allergic reaction occurs to any component of Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets, the medication should not be taken to avoid causing discomfort.

It is recommended to consult a physician before using Compound Glycyrrhiza Tablets to determine whether the medication is suitable for you in order to maintain good health.