Objective:

To report a case of delirium and complications resulting from withdrawal from compound liquorice tablets.

Approach:

• Case Presentation: A 29-year-old male self-medicated with compound liquorice tablets for a dry cough post-COVID-19, escalating to 200–600 tablets daily, leading to drug dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
• Management: The patient was treated with a benzodiazepine tapering regimen, antidepressants, and antipsychotics, alongside management of hypertension and electrolyte imbalances.

Key Findings:

• The patient developed delirium characterized by confusion, hallucinations, and agitation after discontinuing compound liquorice tablets.
• Withdrawal symptoms included palpitations, hypertension, tremors, and severe hypokalemia.
• Comprehensive management led to resolution of withdrawal symptoms and stabilization of the patient's condition.

Interpretation:

This case highlights the potential for severe withdrawal symptoms and complications associated with compound liquorice tablets misuse, emphasizing the need for clinical awareness and management strategies.

Limitations:

• This is a single case report, limiting generalizability.
• There is a lack of extensive clinical studies on the addiction potential of compound liquorice tablets.

Conclusion:

This case highlights the emerging risk of abuse associated with compound liquorice tablets and the necessity for stricter prescription controls.