What compound, found in licorice, can cause electrolyte abnormalities, edema and elevated blood pressure after excessive intake?
Glycyrrhetic acid is hydrolyzed in the intestine to the pharmacologically active compound glycyrrhetic acid, which inhibits the enzyme 11-ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme type 2 with a resultant cortisol-induced mineralocorticoid effect.
Omar HR, Komarova I, El-Ghonemi M, et al. Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab. 2012;3(4):125-138. doi:10.1177/2042018812454322
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