Glycyrrhizic acid (GA), belonging to a class of triterpenes, is a conjugate of two molecules, namely glucuronic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid. It is naturally extracted from the roots of licorice plants. With its more common uses in the confectionery and cosmetics industry, GA extends its applications as a herbal medicine for a wide range of ailments. At low appropriate doses, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-tumor, antimicrobial and anti-viral properties have been reported by researchers worldwide. This review summarizes the effects of GA on metabolic syndrome, tumorigenesis, microbes and viruses, oxidative stress, and inflammation, as well as the reported side effects of the drug.
Matched MeSH terms: Antidiuretic Agents/therapeutic use
To determine treatment outcomes in Malaysian children with primary nocturnal enuresis using both non-pharmacological methods and oral desmopressin. Data was collected prospectively from children aged 6-18 years who were referred to the Hospital UKM Enuresis Clinic. Treatment was given to those with a baseline wetting frequency of at least six wet nights/14 nights. Three modalities were offered: fluid management, reward system and oral desmopressin. Response was recorded as partial (> or = 50% reduction in WN from baseline) or full (completely dry). Seventy-one healthy children completed 12 weeks of therapy. Twenty-three children (32.4%) responded to non-pharmacological methods alone (4 full and 19 partial). Another 37 children (51.2%) responded to oral desmopressin (32 to 0.2mg, 4 to 0.4mg and 1 to 0.6mg). Thirty-two percent became dry whilst on therapy. The mean wetting frequency during treatment was significantly reduced (p < 0.01) compared to the baseline mean for both the non-pharmacological group and the desmopressin group. Discontinuation of desmopressin after 12 weeks increased the wetting frequency but this was still significantly lower than at baseline (p < 0.01). No adverse ents were recorded. Treatment of primary nocturnal enuresis in Malaysian children is both effective and well tolerated using fluid management strategies, reward systems and oral desmopressin.