International reference: 2 US FDA recalls for this ingredient
Lack of sterility assurance. (glycyrrhizic)
Lack of Assurance of Sterility; FDA inspectional findings resulted in concerns associated with quality control procedures that impacted sterility assurance (glycyrrhizic)
US-market enforcement records (OpenFDA), shown for reference - not specific to this product in Ghana.
CG-HERBS ORAL SOLUTION
Glycyrrhizic acid
What it does
Glycyrrhizic is a natural compound derived from licorice root, commonly used for its soothing properties.
Commonly used for: sore throat, inflammation, gastric ulcers
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Answers come only from this medicine's registration record, BNF monograph and interaction data - not medical advice.
Medicine sourcing is available in Kenya only. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.
Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:32:59 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:14
About this medicine
Glycyrrhizic is a natural compound derived from licorice root, commonly used for its soothing properties.
What it treats
- sore throat
- inflammation
- gastric ulcers
How it works
Glycyrrhizic helps reduce inflammation and soothe irritation in the body.
Who it's for
It is suitable for adults and children, but should be used with caution in certain health conditions.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: glycyrrhizic
Glycyrrhizic acid, derived from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), is a triterpenoid saponin known for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and hepatoprotective properties. It is commonly used in traditional medicine and has gained interest in modern pharmacology for its potential therapeutic applications.
Indications
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Chronic inflammatory conditions
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Adverse effects of corticosteroids
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing based on age and weight.
Adults: Dosage varies based on the condition being treated. Refer to specific guidelines or the BNF for appropriate dosing.
Mechanism of action
Glycyrrhizic acid inhibits the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), which converts active cortisol to its inactive form cortisone. By inhibiting this enzyme, glycyrrhizic acid increases the levels of active cortisol, leading to enhanced glucocorticoid activity. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating the immune response.
Pharmacodynamics
Glycyrrhizic acid demonstrates a range of pharmacodynamic effects, including anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant activities. It has been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, leading to decreased expression of inflammatory mediators. Additionally, glycyrrhizic acid has potential benefits in liver protection and regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
Pharmacokinetics
Following oral administration, glycyrrhizic acid is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and undergoes extensive metabolism, primarily in the liver. It has a bioavailability that can vary depending on dosage form and individual metabolism. Glycyrrhizic acid is known to have a long half-life, and its metabolites may have biological activity. Excretion occurs mainly through urine, with both unchanged glycyrrhizic acid and its metabolites being eliminated.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to glycyrrhizic acid or any component of the formulation
- Severe liver disease
- Hypertension
- Hypokalemia
- Corticosteroid therapy
Adverse effects
- Hypertension
- Hypokalemia
- Edema
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
Interactions
- Corticosteroids - may enhance the effects and side effects of corticosteroids
- Diuretics - may increase the risk of hypokalemia
- Digoxin - may enhance the effects of digoxin leading to toxicity
- Antihypertensives - may reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive medications
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of hypertension
- Monitor blood pressure and potassium levels during prolonged use
- Consider potential interactions with other medications
- Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiac disease
Pregnancy
There is insufficient evidence on the safety of glycyrrhizic during pregnancy. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Caution is advised as glycyrrhizic may be excreted in breast milk. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral tablets
- Syrups
- Powders for reconstitution
- Topical preparations
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.