What are the side effects of licorice tablets?
Feb 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Bai Hongmei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the side effects of licorice tablets include gastrointestinal discomfort, edema, elevated blood pressure, hypokalemia, allergic reactions, and others. When taking licorice tablets, do not take them continuously for a prolonged period. It is generally recommended that the duration of use should not exceed 7 days. If symptoms do not improve, medical attention should be sought promptly to change the treatment plan, in order to avoid the aforementioned side effects caused by long-term medication.
Generally, the side effects of licorice tablets include gastrointestinal discomfort, edema, elevated blood pressure, hypokalemia, allergic reactions, etc. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Certain ingredients in licorice tablets may irritate the gastric mucosa, causing nausea and a sensation of wanting to vomit. It may also lead to mild stomach pain, affect normal digestive function, and cause discomfort to the patient.
2. Edema
Glycyrrhizic acid in licorice tablets may affect water and salt metabolism in the body, increasing sodium reabsorption, which leads to water and sodium retention and subsequently causes edema. Common manifestations include swelling in areas such as the lower limbs or eyelids, with possible indentation upon pressing.
3. Elevated Blood Pressure
Components in licorice may activate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, causing vasoconstriction and increasing blood volume, thereby raising blood pressure.
4. Hypokalemia
Licorice tablets may promote the excretion of potassium ions by the kidneys. Long-term or excessive use can easily lead to reduced potassium ion levels in the body, resulting in hypokalemia. Patients may experience symptoms such as muscle weakness, limb weakness, abdominal distension, and in severe cases, it may also affect cardiac function.
5. Allergic Reaction
Some individuals may be allergic to components in licorice tablets. After taking them, symptoms such as skin itching and rashes may appear. Red spots or patches may develop on the skin, accompanied by significant itching. In severe cases, allergic symptoms such as difficulty breathing may occur.
When taking licorice tablets, it should be done under the guidance of a doctor. If symptoms do not improve, medical attention should be sought promptly to change the treatment plan, thus avoiding the above-mentioned side effects caused by long-term medication.
