What are the side effects of Compound Licorice Tablets?
Generally, Compound Liquorice Tablets are a commonly used antitussive and expectorant medication. Side effects that may occur during administration include skin allergies, nausea and vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain and diarrhea, headache and dizziness. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Skin Allergy
Some patients may develop allergic reactions to certain components of Compound Liquorice Tablets. These allergic reactions may manifest as rashes, itching, and erythema. Rashes usually appear on exposed areas of the body, such as the face, neck, and arms. The sensation of itching may cause discomfort and even affect sleep.
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Camphor and star anise oil, components of Compound Liquorice Tablets, may cause nausea by irritating the gastric mucosa. This feeling of nausea typically occurs shortly after taking the medication. Patients may experience stomach discomfort and may also have vomiting, which might be accompanied by epigastric pain and acid reflux.
3. Constipation
Opium powder is one of the components in Compound Liquorice Tablets and has the effect of inhibiting intestinal peristalsis. This inhibitory effect may slow intestinal motility, causing prolonged retention of stool in the intestine and excessive absorption of water, which can lead to constipation. Constipation may manifest as difficulty in defecation, dry and hard stools, or reduced frequency of bowel movements.
4. Abdominal Pain and Diarrhea
Components of Compound Liquorice Tablets may irritate the intestines, causing abdominal pain and diarrhea. Abdominal pain typically presents as paroxysmal cramps, possibly located in the upper abdomen or periumbilical region. Diarrhea presents as increased frequency of bowel movements, loose or watery stools. These symptoms may be caused by the drug's relaxant effect on intestinal smooth muscle, resulting in increased intestinal motility, thereby causing abdominal pain and diarrhea.
5. Headache and Dizziness
Compound Liquorice Tablets may also affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as dizziness and headache. These symptoms may be due to the drug's inhibitory effect on the central nervous system. Headache and dizziness can affect the patient's daily life and work efficiency. At this time, the patient should stop taking the medication and consult a doctor for advice.
To reduce the risk of these side effects, patients should carefully read the instruction leaflet before use, understanding the drug's components, dosage instructions, and precautions. During the medication period, patients should closely monitor their physical reactions and discontinue the drug immediately if any adverse symptoms occur, seeking medical attention promptly.