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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Generally, taking DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) with omeprazole is considered safe for most individuals. DGL works by protecting the stomach lining, which can complement the action of omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor that reduces stomach acid production. There are no widely reported significant drug interactions between DGL and omeprazole, making them a potentially complementary approach for managing certain digestive issues.

Key Facts

DGL is a form of licorice with glycyrrhizin removed, which is responsible for most of licorice's side effects.
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
DGL's proposed mechanism of action involves stimulating the production of mucus and prostaglandins in the stomach lining, offering a protective effect.
There are no significant known contraindications or major drug interactions reported between DGL and omeprazole in standard medical literature.
Both DGL and omeprazole can be used to manage conditions like acid reflux, heartburn, and peptic ulcers, although they work through different mechanisms.

Overview

The question of whether one can safely combine DGL licorice with omeprazole is a common one for individuals seeking natural remedies alongside conventional medications for digestive discomfort. Omeprazole, a widely prescribed proton pump inhibitor (PPI), is a cornerstone in the treatment of conditions characterized by excess stomach acid, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and heartburn. Its primary function is to drastically reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms and promoting healing of the esophageal or stomach lining.

DGL licorice, on the other hand, is a popular herbal supplement derived from the root of the licorice plant. Crucially, it has undergone a process to remove glycyrrhizin, a compound in licorice that can cause significant side effects like elevated blood pressure and potassium depletion. The deglycyrrhizinated form is generally considered safe for long-term use and is believed to offer gastroprotective benefits. It is thought to work by increasing mucus production in the stomach and enhancing blood flow to the stomach lining, which can create a protective barrier against irritants and acid.

How It Works

DGL's Protective Mechanism: DGL licorice is believed to exert its gastroprotective effects through several mechanisms. It is thought to stimulate the production of prostaglandins, which play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the stomach lining. Additionally, DGL may increase the secretion of mucus, a thick, gel-like substance that coats the stomach wall, acting as a physical barrier against gastric acid and other damaging agents. This dual action can help to soothe inflammation and promote the healing of sores or ulcers in the stomach and duodenum.
Omeprazole's Acid Suppression: Omeprazole functions as a proton pump inhibitor. The proton pumps, specifically the H+/K+-ATPase enzymes found in the parietal cells of the stomach lining, are responsible for secreting hydrogen ions (protons) into the stomach lumen, which ultimately form hydrochloric acid. Omeprazole irreversibly binds to and inhibits these pumps, leading to a profound and long-lasting reduction in gastric acid production. This reduction in acidity is key to allowing damaged tissues in the esophagus and stomach to heal.
Synergistic Potential: When considering DGL and omeprazole together, their mechanisms appear to be complementary rather than antagonistic. Omeprazole tackles the problem of excessive acid at its source, while DGL focuses on strengthening and protecting the stomach lining itself. This combined approach could potentially offer a more comprehensive solution for individuals suffering from severe heartburn, acid reflux, or ulcers, where both reducing acid and protecting the mucosa are important.
Safety Profile of DGL: The deglycyrrhizination process is critical to the safety of DGL. By removing glycyrrhizin, the risk of adverse effects commonly associated with licorice consumption is significantly minimized. This makes DGL a more palatable and safer option for many individuals, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions or those taking other medications, as it is less likely to interfere with metabolic processes or cause systemic side effects.

Key Comparisons

Feature	DGL Licorice	Omeprazole
Primary Action	Protects stomach lining (mucus, prostaglandins)	Reduces stomach acid production (PPI)
Mechanism Type	Herbal/Natural Gastroprotection	Pharmaceutical/Chemical Acid Inhibition
Common Uses	Heartburn, GERD, ulcers, gastritis (supportive)	GERD, ulcers, erosive esophagitis, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Potential Side Effects (rare with DGL)	Digestive upset, electrolyte imbalance (if not deglycyrrhizinated)	Headache, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, vitamin B12 deficiency (long-term)
Drug Interactions	Minimal known interactions	Can interact with certain medications (e.g., clopidogrel, antifungals)

Why It Matters

Impact on Symptom Relief: For individuals experiencing persistent heartburn, regurgitation, or upper abdominal pain, the combination of DGL and omeprazole might offer enhanced symptom relief. Omeprazole provides the primary relief by reducing the acidity that irritates the esophagus and stomach, while DGL's protective action can further soothe the lining and potentially accelerate healing, contributing to a more comfortable digestive experience.
Reduced Risk of Complications: Chronic acid exposure can lead to serious complications like erosive esophagitis, esophageal strictures, and an increased risk of Barrett's esophagus. By working together, omeprazole to suppress acid and DGL to fortify the mucosal defenses, the combined approach could potentially offer a greater degree of protection against these long-term consequences of acid-related disorders, supporting overall gastrointestinal health.
Holistic Approach to Digestive Health: Integrating a natural supplement like DGL with a conventional medication like omeprazole can align with a more holistic approach to managing digestive issues. While omeprazole addresses the immediate physiological cause (excess acid), DGL can support the body's natural defense mechanisms. This can empower individuals by providing them with tools that address both the biochemical and protective aspects of their digestive health, potentially leading to greater satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans.

In conclusion, the combination of DGL licorice and omeprazole is generally considered safe and potentially beneficial for managing various digestive complaints. While omeprazole targets the reduction of stomach acid, DGL focuses on bolstering the protective mechanisms of the gastrointestinal lining. This synergistic effect may lead to improved symptom control and a greater capacity for tissue healing. As with any combination of supplements and medications, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting this regimen to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health needs and to monitor for any potential individual reactions.