MAJOR — Use With Caution
🔴 AVOID — Licorice root directly opposes spironolactone pharmacologically. Glycyrrhizin activates mineralocorticoid receptors while spironolactone blocks them, rendering the medication ineffective.
Evidence level: STRONG
Licorice root activates the exact receptor that spironolactone is designed to block. Taking both means your medication cannot work properly.
Licorice root causes pseudoaldosteronism by activating mineralocorticoid receptors. Spironolactone is a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist. They directly oppose each other pharmacologically, rendering spironolactone ineffective. Additionally, licorice raises BP while spironolactone lowers it.
Do NOT take licorice root while on spironolactone. They have directly opposing mechanisms. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is safe.
Be consistent with how you take Spironolactone 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.
Rising blood pressure, fluid retention, ankle swelling, weight gain — signs that spironolactone is not working.
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.
Licorice root activates the exact receptor that spironolactone is designed to block. Taking both means your medication cannot work properly.
Be consistent with how you take Spironolactone 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.
Rising blood pressure, fluid retention, ankle swelling, weight gain — signs that spironolactone is not working.
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).