compound licorice tablets

Compound Licorice Tablets is a classic oral antitussive and expectorant combination formulation widely used in China. It is a fixed-dose combination consisting of licorice extract powder, opium powder (or poppy capsule extract), camphor, star anise oil, and sodium benzoate. The licorice extract powder contains glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid, which provide anti-inflammatory, demulcent, and expectorant effects. Opium powder acts as a potent central antitussive by activating opioid receptors to suppress the cough reflex. Camphor and star anise oil stimulate the bronchial mucosa, reflexively increasing glandular secretions to dilute sputum and facilitate expectoration. Sodium benzoate serves as a preservative. Together, these components act synergistically to relieve dry coughs and facilitate the clearance of phlegm.

Other names

Compound Liquorice Tablets复方甘草片