Indications
This is a herbal cough syrup based on licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), usually combined with other soothing plant ingredients. It is traditionally used to relieve dry or tickly cough, cough with thick phlegm, sore or irritated throat and hoarseness during colds and other minor chest and throat infections. Scientific evidence for herbal cough syrups is limited; they ease symptoms and do not cure the underlying infection.
How It Works
Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin and other natural substances that coat and soothe the throat, help loosen phlegm so it is easier to cough up, and have mild anti-inflammatory effects. Other herbs often added to such syrups, such as tulsi (holy basil), ginger, honey or vasaka, are traditionally believed to calm cough and clear mucus.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered herbal practitioner. Shake the bottle well and use the measuring cup provided. Do not take more than the recommended amount and do not use it for more than about a week without advice. Do not give it to children unless the label gives a children’s dose or a practitioner advises it.
Interactions
Licorice, especially in large amounts or with long use, can lower potassium and raise blood pressure. This may interact with water tablets (diuretics) such as Furosemide or Hydrochlorothiazide, with Digoxin, with steroid medicines such as Prednisolone, and with blood pressure medicines. It may also reduce the effect of Warfarin. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Allergy to licorice or any ingredient listed on the pack
- High blood pressure, heart failure or serious heart disease
- Kidney or liver disease, or low potassium levels
- Pregnancy
- Poorly controlled diabetes, if the syrup contains sugar
Side Effects
Short term use at the label dose is usually well tolerated. Some people may have stomach upset, nausea or allergic reactions. Long or heavy use may cause swelling of the ankles, headache, raised blood pressure, tiredness and muscle weakness because of potassium loss.
Get urgent medical help if you have difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the face, lips or throat, chest pain, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, severe muscle weakness, coughing up blood, or a high fever that does not settle.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Licorice should be avoided during pregnancy, as heavy use has been linked with harm to the baby and early birth. Ask a doctor before using this syrup while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
See a doctor if the cough lasts more than a week or two, if you are short of breath, if you cough up blood or green or rust coloured phlegm with fever, or if you lose weight. Do not use this syrup in place of prescribed treatment for asthma, chronic bronchitis or tuberculosis. People with diabetes should check the sugar content.
Overdose
Repeated high doses can lower potassium and raise blood pressure. If you notice weakness, palpitations or swelling, stop the syrup and see a doctor. If a child has swallowed a large amount, contact a doctor or go to the nearest hospital and take the bottle with you.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal preparation (cough remedy, demulcent and expectorant).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the bottle tightly closed and use within the period stated on the label after opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.