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Serum or plasma concentration of glycyrrhizin

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of glycyrrhizin, a compound found in licorice root, in your blood or plasma. It may be used to monitor exposure or effects related to licorice consumption or certain medications.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess potential health effects from licorice or related products."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107799-9
Short code
Liquorice IgG Qn IA
Synonyms
Liquorice IgG Qn IA
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve used licorice products (e.g., candies, teas) or certain medications known to contain glycyrrhizin, such as certain heart medications or herbal supplements. It may also be checked in cases of suspected liver or kidney issues linked to long-term use.

What Does the Result Mean?

High levels may indicate excessive exposure, while very low levels could suggest poor absorption or medication interactions. Results alone don’t diagnose conditions—they’re part of a broader evaluation.

Sample Collection and Preparation

Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for testing. If using a plasma sample, it’s often collected in a tube without anticoagulants to separate plasma from cells.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated levels might be linked to frequent licorice use, certain medications, or metabolic conditions. Low levels could result from rapid metabolism or interactions with other drugs.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Glycyrrhizin can affect blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and kidney function. Chronic high exposure may contribute to conditions like hypertension or fluid retention. This test helps monitor risks in patients on licorice-containing therapies.

Short name

Glycyrrhizin Level

Frequently asked questions

What triggers this test?
Your doctor may order it if you’ve consumed licorice products, taken medications containing glycyrrhizin, or if you have symptoms like swelling, high blood pressure, or unexplained fatigue.
How soon will I get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid licorice products or medications containing glycyrrhizin for at least 24 hours before testing.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy