MAJOR — Use With Caution
DANGEROUS — licorice root must be avoided while on digoxin
Evidence level: STRONG
Licorice root causes potassium loss that makes digoxin dangerously toxic — even herbal teas with real licorice can do this.
Glycyrrhizin in licorice inhibits 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, causing pseudoaldosteronism with sodium retention and potassium wasting. Hypokalemia potentiates digoxin toxicity.
Completely avoid real licorice (glycyrrhizin-containing) products while on digoxin. Artificially flavored licorice candy is safe. Check herbal tea ingredients.
Be consistent with how you take Digoxin relative to meals — take it with food or without food consistently each day. Licorice Root — sudden large changes in diet composition can affect how your body processes many medications. Grapefruit, leafy greens, and high-fiber foods are the most common food-drug interaction culprits.
High licorice consumption, concurrent diuretics, renal impairment
Muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, dangerous heart rhythms, edema, high blood pressure
Tell your doctor about ALL herbal supplements and teas. Ask about licorice content.
Adjust the timing or quantity of Licorice Root relative to your medication. Maintain consistent daily intake rather than large sporadic amounts. Your pharmacist can advise on specific timing windows.
Licorice root causes potassium loss that makes digoxin dangerously toxic — even herbal teas with real licorice can do this.
Be consistent with how you take Digoxin relative to meals — take it with food or without food consistently each day. Licorice Root — sudden large changes in diet composition can affect how your body processes many medications. Grapefruit, leafy greens, and high-fiber foods are the most common food-drug interaction culprits.
Muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, dangerous heart rhythms, edema, high blood pressure
Adjust the timing or quantity of Licorice Root relative to your medication. Maintain consistent daily intake rather than large sporadic amounts. Your pharmacist can advise on specific timing windows.
Tell your doctor about ALL herbal supplements and teas. Ask about licorice content.
Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).