MAJOR — Use With Caution
🔴 AVOID — Both hydrochlorothiazide and licorice root deplete potassium. Combined use creates dangerous hypokalemia risk that can trigger cardiac arrhythmias.
Evidence level: STRONG
Both licorice root and HCTZ cause your body to lose potassium. Together, potassium can drop to dangerous levels, risking heart rhythm problems.
Licorice root causes pseudoaldosteronism with potassium wasting. Hydrochlorothiazide also causes potassium loss. The combination creates significant hypokalemia risk, which can cause cardiac arrhythmias. Additionally, both raise blood pressure through sodium retention.
Avoid licorice root supplements while on HCTZ. The combined potassium-wasting effect is dangerous. Monitor potassium levels. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is safe.
Be consistent with how you take Hydrochlorothiazide 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.
Higher risk for: elderly, those with liver or kidney impairment, polypharmacy (5+ medications), recent medication changes, or those with multiple chronic conditions. Consult your pharmacist for specific risk factors.
Muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, constipation. Severe hypokalemia is a medical emergency.
No urgent need to discuss, but always keep your doctor informed of your full supplement and medication list. An up-to-date list helps them make the best treatment decisions.
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.
Both licorice root and HCTZ cause your body to lose potassium. Together, potassium can drop to dangerous levels, risking heart rhythm problems.
Be consistent with how you take Hydrochlorothiazide 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, cramps, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, constipation. Severe hypokalemia is a medical emergency.
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.
No urgent need to discuss, but always keep your doctor informed of your full supplement and medication list. An up-to-date list helps them make the best treatment decisions.
Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).