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| Clinical data | |
|---|---|
| Trade names | Epigen, Glycyron |
| AHFS/Drugs.com | International Drug Names |
| Routes of administration | Oral, intravenous |
| ATC code | |
| Pharmacokinetic data | |
| Metabolism | Hepatic and by intestinal bacteria |
| Elimination half-life | 6.2–10.2 hours[1] |
| Excretion | Faeces, urine (0.31–0.67%)[2] |
| Identifiers | |
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| CAS Number |
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| PubChem CID | |
| ChemSpider |
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| UNII | |
| KEGG | |
| ChEBI | |
| ChEMBL | |
| E number | E958 (glazing agents, ...)  |
| CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | |
| ECHA InfoCard | 100.014.350 |
| Chemical and physical data | |
| Formula | C42H62O16 |
| Molar mass | 822.942 g·mol−1 |
| 3D model (JSmol) | |
| Solubility in water | 1–10 mg/mL (20 °C) |
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Glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acidorglycyrrhizinic acid) is the chief sweet-tasting constituent of Glycyrrhiza glabra (liquorice) root. Structurally, it is a saponin used as an emulsifier and gel-forming agent in foodstuffs and cosmetics. Its aglyconeisenoxolone.
After oral ingestion, glycyrrhizin is hydrolysed to 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (enoxolone) by intestinal bacteria. After absorption from the gut, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid is metabolised to 3β-monoglucuronyl-18β-glycyrrhetinic acid in the liver. This metabolite circulates in the bloodstream. Consequently, its oral bioavailability is poor.[quantify] Most of it is eliminated by bile and only a minor part (0.31–0.67%) by urine.[3] After oral ingestion of 600 mg of glycyrrhizin the metabolite appeared in urine after 1.5 to 14 hours. Maximal concentrations (0.49 to 2.69 mg/L) were achieved after 1.5 to 39 hours and metabolite can be detected in the urine after 2 to 4 days.[3]
Glycyrrhizin is obtained as an extract from licorice root after maceration and boiling in water.[4] Licorice extract (glycyrrhizin) is sold in the United States as a liquid, paste, or spray-dried powder.[4] When in specified amounts, it is approved for use as a flavor and aroma in manufactured foods, beverages, candies, dietary supplements, and seasonings.[4] It is 30 to 50 times as sweet as sucrose (table sugar).[5]
The most widely reported side effect of glycyrrhizin use via consumption of black liquorice is reduction of blood potassium levels, which can affect body fluid balance and function of nerves.[6][7] Chronic consumption of black licorice, even in moderate amounts, is associated with an increase in blood pressure,[7] may cause irregular heart rhythm, and may have adverse interactions with prescription drugs.[6] In extreme cases, death can occur as a result of excess consumption.[8][9]
Media related to Glycyrrhizin at Wikimedia Commons
