If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you
should not use licorice without first talking to your healthcare provider:
Ace-inhibitors and diuretics
If you are taking
angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or diuretics (except
potassium-sparing diuretics) to regulate blood pressure, do not use licorice
products. Licorice could interfere with the effectiveness of these medications
or could worsen possible side effects.
Aspirin
Animal studies suggest that licorice may reduce
stomach irritation as well as the risk of stomach ulcers associated with
aspirin.
Digoxin
Because licorice may dangerously increase the risk of
toxic effects from digoxin, this herb should not be taken with this
medication.
Corticosteroids
Licorice may increase the effects of
corticosteroid medications. You should consult with your doctor before using
licorice with any corticosteroids.
Insulin
Licorice may enhance some of the adverse effects of
insulin.
Laxatives
Licorice may cause substantial potassium loss in
people taking stimulant laxatives.
Oral contraceptives
There have been reports of women
developing high blood pressure and low potassium levels when they took licorice
while on oral contraceptives. Therefore, you should avoid licorice if you are
taking birth control medications.
